The Pittsburgh Steelers have been involved in trade rumors for San Francisco 49ers wide receiver Brandon Aiyuk throughout training camp.
The Steelers offense surely will look different this year with new additions Russell Wilson and Justin Fields as well as new offensive coordinator Arthur Smith. In addition to these new pieces, there have been constant rumors about Pittsburgh being a preferred destination for Aiyuk.
Pittsburgh could use another wide receiver to pair with rising star George Pickens after the offseason departure of Diontae Johnson, and adding Brandon Aiyuk would make the Steelers offense one of the best in the league.
Although there have been many rumors about a trade for Aiyuk, something has been keeping the trade from happening. A third team may be just what the Steelers need to get a deal done for Brandon Aiyuk according to Sports Illustrated’s Noah Strackbein.
“Well, according to multiple reports, the Steelers aren’t offering enough,” Strackbein reported. “Good, because they shouldn’t be. The ball is in their court, and more damage could be done if they give up the farm instead of dealing with the receiver group they have and trying to make it work.”
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“Plus, the 49ers seem to be willing to make adjustments. Some rumors claim San Francisco is looking for a third team to get involved that would send them a wide receiver and Pittsburgh would send that team draft picks. Davante Adams appears to be at the top of that list, but does that seem realistic?”
The Steelers have leverage as the 49ers are in a worse position with each passing day. Aiyuk does not seem to be signing a contract with San Francisco anytime soon. Pittsburgh does not have to make a hasty decision and can wait until a deal that suits them better is on the table.
If the Steelers can land Aiyuk, they will be in a much better position as they strive to make a deep playoff run this season.
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