The Brandon Aiyuk saga may (finally) be nearing an end.
NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport reported on Tuesday that the 49ers have a deal in place to send Aiyuk to the Steelers that is only waiting on San Francisco’s “final sign-off.”
Pittsburgh is also reportedly “in a good place on an Aiyuk contract,” per Rapoport, although the 49ers have a long-term deal for the star wide receiver on the table as well.
The Aiyuk-49ers trade drama has been one of the biggest stories of the NFL offseason.
Aiyuk, who has been in constant trade rumors all summer, requested out of San Francisco in mid-July after not being able to agree on a long-term contract.
Earlier this month, the Browns and Patriots were said to be the two top contenders to acquire Aiyuk before the fifth-year pass-catcher reportedly rejected a trade to both teams.
Last week, Steel City Insider’s Jim Wexell reported that the 49ers were seeking at least two first-round draft picks for Aiyuk.
Aiyuk, 26, would immediately slot in as the No. 1 receiver on a revamped Steelers offense that will feature Russell Wilson – or potentially Justin Fields – behind center.
Last season, Aiyuk made 75 catches for a career-high 1,342 yards, making second-team All-Pro for the first time in his career.
Although Rapoport’s report makes a Steelers trade seem likely, Aiyuk could still be dealt elsewhere, play the 2024 season on his fifth-year option or receive the long-term deal he’s seeking from San Francisco.
Aiyuk is set to make $14.1 million this season – well below the market for a top-level wide receiver – and is reportedly seeking somewhere in the range of $28 million in an extension.