The idea that the San Francisco 49ers might trade Brandon Aiyuk to the Las Vegas Raiders is deemed “shocking,” as per one headline.
And that’s true… but not for the reason the article implies.
The rumor isn’t “shocking” because of a “shocking 49ers trade proposal that sends a $120 million star to the Raiders,” as it’s being promoted.
It would be “shocking” because it’s practically impossible to trade this player at the moment.
How impossible? Even Aiyuk himself has commented on it, describing it as such, pointing out that he is currently recovering from an injury with no positive timeline for return. Therefore, honestly…
Who would want to trade for an injured $120 million player?
So, no, there are no intentions of making a deal that sends him to Washington to reunite with his former quarterback Jayden Daniels. That was yesterday’s odd suggestion that didn’t make sense. Deebo Samuel is there, the former Niner making $17.5 million this year. Aiyuk’s average annual salary is $30 million, and Terry McLaurin is seeking at least that in his new contract.
This would create an impressive receiver group… but one that is financially overwhelming in an unprecedented way.
Now, NFL Analysis Network’s John Porter suggests the 49ers could trade Aiyuk to the Raiders, labeling it as “a no-brainer for the Raiders if he were available.”
Here’s a heads-up: Aiyuk is likely available.
So why hasn’t this happened? Because right now, it isn’t a no-brainer. Trading Aiyuk isn’t straightforward.
And even he knows it.