PITTSBURGH — Brandon Aiyuk and the San Francisco 49ers continue to make headlines while the Pittsburgh Steelers wait for an answer on whether things are going in their favor. And as the season approaches, the All-Pro wide receiver's message is getting louder.
For the second day in a row, Aiyuk has failed to show up to the 49ers' practice. With the 53-man roster now set, players are not expected to show up to practice. With Aiyuk's absence, he will likely face fines as he tries to force the deal with San Francisco.
Aiyuk wants to get paid. It appears his first choice is to sign a contract extension with the 49ers, but he has made it clear all summer that the Steelers are a trade option.
Brandon Aiyuk is not at practice today.
— Grant Cohn (@grantcohn) 29 August 2024
The Steelers have reportedly sent their offer to the 49ers and are waiting patiently to see if a deal comes together. There are also claims they have a contract with Aiyuk should a trade happen, but the 49ers' priority is to extend Aiyuk's contract and they continue to put any trades on the back burner while they try to negotiate.
The Steelers, meanwhile, have reportedly started calling elsewhere. According to Alan Saunders of Steelers Now, Pittsburgh contacted the Houston Texans to inquire about John Metchie, and it did the same with the Denver Broncos prior to releasing Tim Patrick.
Pittsburgh appears to be trying to sign another talented wide receiver, with Aiyuk being their first choice. With a contract worth just under $30 million per year and a full transfer package for the 49ers, the Steelers appear to be ready for a major coup.
It's unknown when the matter will be resolved or if the Steelers will remain in the race for the wide receiver. In the meantime, they are trying to get the most out of George Pickens, Van Jefferson, Calvin Austin, Roman Wilson and Scotty Miller.
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