49ers Consider Trading Brandon Aiyuk to Panthers, Patriots

The San Francisco 49ers are reportedly considering trading wide receiver Brandon Aiyuk, particularly in light of significant roster turnover this offseason, including the recent trade of Deebo Samuel. Aiyuk, who signed a four-year, $120 million extension, struggled last season due to injuries, appearing in only seven games after suffering a torn ACL. With a trade deadline set for April 1, multiple teams, including the Carolina Panthers and New England Patriots, have expressed interest in acquiring him. NFL writer Grant Cohn suggested a potential trade package that would send Aiyuk and the 11th pick in the draft to the Panthers in exchange for the 8th pick, which could help the 49ers secure a foundational player. This move could save San Francisco $22.5 million against their salary cap, but it could also leave their receiving corps significantly depleted. As the team navigates a challenging offseason, Aiyuk's future remains uncertain, and the organization is considering how to bolster its offense moving forward.