There are rumors that the Pittsburgh Steelers are interested in a deal with the San Francisco 49ers while they assess the future of its biggest receivers. Both Brandon Aiyuk and Deebo Samuel lead the San Francisco squad, but both have been linked to trade rumors.
The trading target in this instance is Aiyuk. 93.7 Pittsburgh has reportedly considered making a bid for the fifth-year wide receiver, according to Andrew Fillipponi of The Fan.
On March 19, Fillipponi posted on X, “Sources: The Steelers have looked into 49ers WR Brandon Aiyuk.” “The final year of his contract is about to begin.” Sign and trade would have to be completed by the Steelers. But they’ve expressed curiosity.
Pittsburgh might be the best option if the 49ers need to deal Aiyuk this offseason. The AFC North teams are seldom faced by San Francisco, but Pittsburgh holds the 20th overall choice in the 2024 NFL draft and has a substantial amount of salary cap room.
Although re-signing Aiyuk would be the best course of action, it might not be possible. There’s a good chance that we will hear more about a possible 49ers and Steelers trade for Aiyuk because the Steelers meet all the requirements for a possible trade partner.
Will Aiyuk Take the Lead as Receiver?
Because of his position in San Francisco head coach Kyle Shanahan’s scheme, any possible move for Aiyuk will be intriguing. Aiyuk will have to share the load amongst George Kittle, Christian McCaffrey, and Samuel—three of the top players in their respective positions.
Also Read: Steelers is pursuing a “bigger deal” at WR, according insider.
Nevertheless, the former standout player from Arizona State has led the team in receiving yards the past two seasons. Following 1015 yards in 2022, Aiyuk scored 1342 yards with 17.9 yards per reception in 2023.
There are almost no issues with a fit on Pittsburgh. After the Steelers traded Diontae Johnson to the Carolina Panthers, George Pickens is the lone wide receiver still in the running to be a top pick.
Pickens is thrilling, but his performances haven’t even approached the level of Aiyuk’s consistent work. The only possible sticking point would be Aiyuk’s reluctance to be the team’s biggest weapon while Justin Fields and Russell Wilson are the quarterbacks.
Veteran WR Is Back for the 49ers
San Francisco has made every effort to maintain the unity of the WR group, even though Aiyuk might be out. The most recent action in that endeavor was the one-year contract that veteran wide receiver Chris Conley signed following his 2023 time in San Francisco.
In his nine seasons in the NFL, Conley has played for five different teams; the 49ers are the fifth squad he has dressed up for. Despite the fact that he was by no means a star player in 2023, he provides experience and the “little things.”
The former Georgia Bulldog is an excellent blocker, to start. However, his knowledge and acumen make him a valuable asset for Shanahan in practically any circumstance.
Conley, of course, even had the opportunity to play in the 2024 Super Bowl and made the most of it. The 31-year-old scored a first down and gained eighteen yards after catching his lone target.
