Aiyuk Trade Looms as Roster Bonus Deadline Approaches

San Francisco, California — The San Francisco 49ers are expected to retain wide receiver Brandon Aiyuk ahead of an unofficial trade deadline on April 1. This decision comes as Aiyuk is due a $22.85 million roster bonus if he remains on the team’s roster, potentially complicating any trade negotiations, according to sources reported by ESPN’s Adam Schefter.

Aiyuk, who signed a lucrative four-year, $120 million extension last year, has been at the center of trade speculation. The pending bonus payment, due Tuesday, has led to speculation that the 49ers might pursue a trade to alleviate salary concerns. Time is running short, as the team has shed multiple key contracts this offseason.

“Once the 49ers pay that bonus, any trade talks for Aiyuk would be off, and he would be expected to spend the 2025 season in San Francisco,” Schefter stated in a tweet Sunday morning, highlighting the urgency of the situation.

The 49ers previously traded one of their star receivers this offseason, increasing the interest around Aiyuk’s future. However, the current state of trade discussions has been less active compared to last year, when the team engaged with the Cleveland Browns and New England Patriots over possible deals.

Aiyuk’s performance has also been affected by injuries; last October, he suffered a torn ACL and MCL, which severely curtailed his 2024 season. Before the injury, he recorded 25 receptions for 374 yards and had no touchdowns. In the 2023 season, he was on track with 75 catches for 1,342 yards and seven touchdowns. His overall career stats show 294 receptions for 4,305 yards and 25 touchdowns since he was drafted 25th overall in 2020.

The 49ers are reportedly keen on managing their finances effectively this offseason, making Aiyuk’s bonus a pivotal element in their plans. His $24.9 million guarantee that triggers in 2026 also adds to the complexity of his situation.

As for Aiyuk’s health, there are concerns regarding his readiness for the upcoming season following his injury. Reports suggest he may not return until mid-season, which could further diminish his appeal in trade talks. The landscape of possible suitors has also changed, as interest in Aiyuk appears muted compared to previous seasons.

Facing these constraints, the 49ers find themselves at a critical juncture with Aiyuk. Transactions in the NFL can evolve rapidly, but as of now, the team is expected to head into the summer with the talented receiver still on their roster, provided that no deal surfaces by Tuesday.