One team pulls out of Brandon Aiyuk sweepstakes
The San Francisco 49ers can cross one team off the list of possible suitors for wide receiver Brandon Aiyuk.
ESPN’s Adam Schefter reported the New England Patriots are no longer exploring trade possibilities for the All-Pro wide receiver.
The Patriots were one of the two teams that had a framework in place for a trade with San Francisco.
It always felt like New England was a long shot given where they are in their rebuild. Reports indicated they were willing to pay Aiyuk top-of-market money. That a deal hadn’t been struck was an indication that Aiyuk was unwilling to sign long-term with the Patriots.
Instead of trying to entice the young receiver, the Patriots will focus on their own group.
As for the 49ers, they’re still in search of a trade partner so the Pats pulling out doesn’t change much for them.
They have a deal in place with the Browns per NBC Sports Bay Area’s Matt Maiocco. San Francisco has also re-engaged in talks with the Pittsburgh Steelers about Aiyuk. They’re one of his preferred destinations, so if a framework is agreed to there it seems likely a deal would go through.
There’s still a chance Aiyuk stays in San Francisco, especially if trade partners continue backing out. However, as long as he remains without a long-term contract, the door is open for a move.
This article originally appeared on Niners Wire: One team pulls out of Brandon Aiyuk sweepstakes
