Patriots News: Brandon Aiyuk, Tom Brady, Drake Maye, Josh McDaniels and more
The Patriots' chances of convincing the 49ers to trade Brandon Aiyuk are fading
The hottest topic of the Patriots' offseason has been the idea of the new regime making a blockbuster trade for a true WR1 to boost the offense in a way they've needed for several years. It was a talking point leading up to the draft, especially when discussing Brandon Aiyuk and Tee Higgins, but it died down after no trades were made over that weekend.
In the months since, fans have kept a close eye on both receivers and have focused on getting Aiyuk out of San Francisco. Given that contract negotiations between the receiver and the team seem to be at a standstill, it's looking more and more like he might be moved before the start of the season.
Aiyuk has even alluded to it on social media, reigniting Patriots fans' dreams of seeing him suit up in red, white, and blue. But what are the chances of a deal actually getting done?
According to Chris Mason of MassLive, who referenced NFL insider Jeremy Fowler's intel, it's doubtful we'll see Aiyuk traded to the Patriots, or any team.
"Last month, multiple teams told Jeremy Fowler that the 49ers were seeking a first-round pick for Aiyuk. With the Patriots staring down an obvious rebuild and projected to own a Top 5 selection again next year, Eliot Wolf would be foolish to part with that pick in a deal for Aiyuk. That’s a non-starter.
If the 49ers get desperate and decide they’d move Aiyuk for a second-rounder, the Patriots should be ready to pounce, but it still might not be realistic. If the price drops, San Francisco would likely welcome that trade to New England — out of the conference for a high second-rounder — but it only becomes realistic if Aiyuk is willing to sign an extension in Foxborough. That remains a major question mark; where do the Pro Bowl wideout’s priorities lie?"
It's a disappointing development, but it makes all the sense in the world. The 49ers are trying to win right now, and Aiyuk is presumably a big part of that plan. Not to mention, GM John Lynch has dealt with two holdouts over the last two years, Nick Bosa and Deebo Samuel, and both received new contracts.
It seems inevitable that the same will happen for Aiyuk, which is unfortunate for a team like the Patriots, who need a game-changing, needle-moving receiver of his caliber.