Steelers' Trade Hopes For 49ers’ Brandon Aiyuk Aren’t Dead Yet: 'And Yes, The Price Will Go Down'

The Pittsburgh Steelers have been immersed in wide receiver trade talks throughout the offseason. These discussions began when the team decided to trade away their star wide receiver, Diontae Johnson, early in the offseason. Following that trade, it seemed likely that the Steelers would seek another capable wide receiver to start alongside George Pickens.

Reports indicated that the Steelers' front office was actively looking for a wide receiver to complement Pickens. However, as of now, no significant acquisition has occurred. One of the most exciting prospects was a potential trade with the San Francisco 49ers for wide receiver Brandon Aiyuk. Although the Steelers reportedly tried to work out a deal, they were unable to make it happen.

Steelers fans had assumed these talks were over, believing that Pittsburgh had no chance of acquiring Aiyuk from the 49ers. However, on Tuesday, Ray Fittipaldo revealed that these talks aren’t dead yet and could heat back up after June begins.

“The 49ers shut down trade talks earlier this spring, but they could heat up again if it becomes obvious they can't re-sign him. And yes, the price will go down, especially if Aiyuk holds out or becomes difficult. Teams don't want distractions right before the season, especially teams with Super Bowl aspirations.”

The 49ers have not been able to finalize a deal for Aiyuk, who is coming off a tremendous 2023 season where he played a major role in their offensive success. Aiyuk is set to command one of the largest salaries in the NFL for a wide receiver. 

While the 49ers have expressed their desire to reach an agreement with him, any dissatisfaction on Aiyuk's part could work in the Steelers' favor. As Fittipaldo pointed out, this could potentially lower the price for the Steelers, making a trade more feasible. He also made it clear that he thinks those 49ers trade talks will heat back up after June kicks off. 

“I wouldn't be surprised at all.”

The Steelers have bolstered their wide receiver depth with additions like Van Jefferson and Quez Watkins. However, they still lack a true number two receiver to complement Pickens. They drafted Roman Wilson in the third round of the 2024 NFL Draft, and some believe he could start as a rookie. Nonetheless, Fittipaldo suggests that the Steelers are unlikely to enter the season relying solely on their current wide receiver lineup.

“They might go into camp with this WRs room, but it's doubtful they'll go into the season with this WRs room.”

The major hold-up in a potential trade for Aiyuk is the significant cost involved. The Steelers would need to give up valuable assets to acquire him and then turn around and offer Aiyuk a substantial contract. This financial burden is particularly concerning given that the Steelers will soon need to figure out how to pay Pickens as well. Historically, it is more cost-effective for teams to find wide receivers through the draft, a strategy the Steelers have excelled at over the years.

Acquiring Aiyuk would indeed bring immediate talent to the roster, but the long-term financial implications are daunting. The Steelers have a proven track record of drafting and developing wide receivers, which might make them hesitant to invest heavily in a single player through trade and a large contract. This cautious approach ensures they maintain flexibility and sustainability in their roster management, especially with key players like Pickens needing new deals in the near future.

Thus, while Aiyuk would be an excellent addition, the Steelers must weigh the immediate benefits against the long-term costs. As they have consistently shown an ability to draft quality wide receivers, they may opt to continue this approach rather than make a potentially risky financial commitment.

Steelers' WR Room Needs Help

The Steelers' loss of Johnson is not a fatal blow; in fact, it saves them money and should reduce potential headaches. If the Steelers can pull off one more trade for a wide receiver capable of starting and being productive in 2024, they would become serious contenders. 

Adding a strong player to line up alongside Pickens would also alleviate pressure on Wilson. A lineup featuring Wilson, Pickens, and a talent like Aiyuk would significantly improve the Steelers' prospects for the 2024 season.