Niners Trade Hopes for Aiyuk Amidst Drama

0:00On March 30, the San Francisco 49ers are holding out hope for a trade return on wide receiver brand in Ayukh. Coach Kyle Shanahan told reporters at the NFL owners meetings on March 30 that the team wants compensation but isn't rushing the deal. They plan to do what's best for the 9ers without helping another squad too quick. Ayukh inked a 4-year, $120 million extension right before the 2024 season, but things soured fast. Seven games in, he tore his knee, sidelining him for the whole year. The 9ers voided his 2026 guarantees and put him on the reserve left squad list in December. General manager John Lynch made it clear back in January that Ayukh has played his last snap with San Francisco. Fans and analysts see the writing on the wall after two straight 1,000 yard seasons in 2022 and 2023 turned into drama. To fill the gap, the 9ers signed veteran Mike Evans in free agency and added slot guy Christian Kirk.

1:00Ayukh still under contract technically, but he's not in their plans and they'd rather trade than straight release of proven number one receiver win. Healthy. Rumors point to mutual interest with the Washington commanders where Ayukh links up with old Arizona state teammate, Jaden Daniels, alongside Terry, McClauren. Still San Francisco's playing hardball, betting the situation sorts itself with some value coming back their way. Stay locked in with NFL news today, AI powered updates. I'm Corey with the story.