Brandon Aiyuk’s problems with the San Francisco 49ers started way before this offseason.
It all began when they had to work out a new deal after their Super Bowl loss, and while they ultimately got a deal done, it always felt like they weren’t on the same page.
Now, with Aiyuk more than likely playing his last down for the team, both parties will have to make some concessions if they want to move on from one another.
If that’s the case, Gary Davenport of Bleacher Report believes the Washington Commanders could acquire him for a 2027 fifth-round pick.
The Commanders could trade for Brandon Aiyuk
“Granted, Aiyuk was a 1,000-yard receiver in 2022 and 2023. But the 49ers have to know at this point that any return in a trade will be minimal,” Davenport explained. “Aiyuk is going to have to be realistic about his contract as well—if he gets released, he’s going to get less on the open market than he would on a restructured deal.”
Of course, this would be the ultimate bargain for the Commanders. Nevertheless, they would also be taking a massive risk by trading for a guy coming off a major injury and with doubts about his recovery and his character.
The 49ers would at least get something for their trouble, whereas Aiyuk would get an opportunity to reunite with his college teammate, Jayden Daniels, and give the team another weapon opposite Terry McLaurin.
He’d probably get more in the open market, but the 49ers have literally no incentive to do him any favors and allow him to get paid and hand-pick his next destination.
This might be the closest to a win-win situation everyone can get.