Browns Eye Potential Trade for Aiyuk Amid Injury Concerns

CLEVELAND, Ohio — The Cleveland Browns are reportedly exploring a trade for San Francisco 49ers wide receiver Brandon Aiyuk ahead of the 2025 NFL season. Aiyuk, who sustained an ACL injury last year, has been the subject of trade discussions due to contract deadlines facing the 49ers.

Last offseason, the 49ers signed Aiyuk to a new deal while also negotiating potential trades with the New England Patriots and the Browns. With the April 4 deadline looming for Aiyuk’s contract, the Browns have begun talks about what a trade might look like. The team has reportedly considered offering cornerback Greg Newsome along with future draft picks.

“The 49ers are open to trading Aiyuk — a terrific player who will certainly be motivated,” a source close to the situation noted. However, many believe that acquiring Aiyuk presents challenges, given his recent injury history.

Aiyuk’s contract situation is critical. On or before April 4, the 49ers must decide whether to pick up a $4 million option on his contract along with the entirety of his 2026 deal, or release him. This creates a tight window for any potential trade partners, including Cleveland.

Aiyuk, a former first-round pick in 2020, enjoyed two consecutive seasons of over 1,000 yards receiving before his 2024 campaign was cut short by injury. Now 27, he is considered a valuable asset but also comes with the caveat of injury concerns.

As the Browns look to solidify their team after a disappointing 2024 season, they must evaluate whether trading for Aiyuk is in their best interest. The team has significant cap space, but acquiring Aiyuk could affect their financial flexibility moving forward.

“It would be a pretty big surprise for me if they made the move,” said a personnel director familiar with the situation. Aiyuk’s options are limited; he either remains with the 49ers or enters free agency, which could complicate the trade process.

Meanwhile, rivals within the AFC North such as the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Patriots have bolstered their rosters by adding high-profile wide receivers this offseason, putting added pressure on the 49ers to respond in the trade market.

As the offseason progresses, the Browns face a critical decision: Should they pursue a trade for Aiyuk, or conserve their assets for other needs? The answer could define their approach as they attempt to build on the lessons learned from the previous season.