This package would convince 49ers to trade Brandon Aiyuk to Commanders.
Trade rumors have recently focused on San Francisco 49ers wide receiver Brandon Aiyuk, with some suggesting a potential move to the Washington Commanders.
While speculation about Aiyuk’s future continues, the ideal outcome for both parties would be for the 49ers to secure his services with a contract extension, ensuring his stay in the Bay Area for years to come. However, the resolution of these negotiations remains uncertain.
In a surprising twist, Aiyuk has expressed a preference for joining the Washington Commanders if he leaves the 49ers. This is notable given the Commanders’ last-place finish in their division last season.
Aiyuk’s interest in Washington is largely driven by the presence of recently drafted LSU quarterback Jayden Daniels, who was the No. 2 overall pick in the NFL Draft and a former Heisman Trophy winner. Aiyuk sees significant potential in playing alongside such a talented quarterback, which explains his attraction to the Commanders.
To acquire Aiyuk, Washington would need to present a compelling offer. The 49ers are keen on retaining Aiyuk, so any potential trade would need to be exceptionally enticing. The proposed trade package that might sway the 49ers involves sending wide receiver Terry McLaurin and a 2025 second-round draft pick to San Francisco.
This proposed deal is substantial, reflecting the 49ers’ high valuation of Aiyuk. McLaurin is a reliable wide receiver, consistently performing well over the past three seasons. He has started every game, amassing between 75 to 80 receptions, 1,000 to 1,200 yards, and four to five touchdowns each season. His steady performance makes him a viable replacement in the 49ers’ offense under head coach Kyle Shanahan.
Including a second-round pick in the trade is significant, but it underscores the level of compensation the 49ers would require. Additionally, San Francisco would have to absorb McLaurin’s sizeable contract, a three-year, $68 million deal signed in 2022. This financial consideration adds another layer of complexity to the potential trade.
Despite the trade rumors, the most likely scenario is that Aiyuk will remain with the 49ers for the upcoming season. The 49ers are in a win-now mode and need to maximize their current core’s potential. However, if a trade to the Commanders were to occur, it would need to be at a high price that ensures the 49ers can still compete at a high level in 2024.
In summary, while Brandon Aiyuk’s future with the 49ers is still up in the air, the potential trade to the Washington Commanders would require a significant offer, including Terry McLaurin and a second-round draft pick.
This trade reflects the 49ers’ desire to retain a competitive edge while acknowledging Aiyuk’s expressed interest in playing with quarterback Jayden Daniels. Regardless of the outcome, the focus remains on ensuring the best possible scenario for both Aiyuk and the 49ers.