49ers’ Brandon Aiyuk shoots his shot at the Steelers via social media

Despite not having a playoff win in more than half a decade, the Pittsburgh Steelers are a hot commodity lately.  And if the signings and trades of the NFL’s free agent frenzy didn’t prove that, a tweet from one of the leagues most prolific players should:  Aiyuk to Pittsburgh?  A second-team All-Pro in 2023, Aiyuk […]

Rob Gregson — NFL News Writer
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Sep 10, 2023; Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA; San Francisco 49ers wide receiver Brandon Aiyuk (11) makes a catch against the Pittsburgh Steelers during the first half at Acrisure Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Gregory Fisher-USA TODAY Sports
Gregory Fisher-USA TODAY Sports

Despite not having a playoff win in more than half a decade, the Pittsburgh Steelers are a hot commodity lately. 

And if the signings and trades of the NFL’s free agent frenzy didn’t prove that, a tweet from one of the leagues most prolific players should: 

Aiyuk to Pittsburgh? 

A second-team All-Pro in 2023, Aiyuk is one of the more underrated players in the NFL. Easily a number-one option on a plethora of teams, he has often been the second, third, or even fourth-act behind Pro Bowlers Christian McCaffrey, Deebo Samuel, and George Kittle while in the Bay Area.

The uber-talented WR is coming off a career-best year in terms of receiving yards (1342), and yards per reception at a whopping 17.9 to pair with seven touchdowns and 75 receptions, but following a series of events catalyzed by an underwhelming Super Bowl in terms of targets, rumors have been swirling. 

Those within Aiyuk’s "inner circle" became vocal on social media, shortly after the season ended, even suggesting that he may be on his way out.

But trading for Aiyuk is no easy feat. At only 26 years of age and with the aforementioned production, he will likely fetch draft capital that includes a first round pick. 

On top of that, Aiyuk will need a contract extension seeing as he’s slated to play 2024 on the final year of his rookie deal, a fifth year option. 

So while the cost would be high, the reward could be higher. Aiyuk would replace what Diontae Johnson offered Pittsburgh, but in a supercharged package given his size, athleticism and speed. The 49ers will likely have a high asking price, but if Pittsburgh makes the right offer, it will be tough to refuse.