Trade rumors surrounding Brandon Aiyuk have intensified after the 49ers receiver reportedly requested a trade due to unsuccessful contract extension negotiations. Now one of the top names on the trade market, the question is which teams might be interested in him. According to Betonline. ag, the Cardinals have the seventh-highest odds (+1000) of acquiring Aiyuk, if he does not stay with San Francisco. Teams listed ahead of the Cardinals include the Pittsburgh Steelers (+350), Jacksonville Jaguars (+600), Indianapolis Colts (+650), Los Angeles Chargers (+900), and New England Patriots (+950).
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Since entering the NFL as a top draft pick in 2020, Aiyuk has caught 269 passes for 3,931 yards and 25 touchdowns over four seasons. He is coming off consecutive 1,000-yard seasons, with a career-high 1,342 yards in 2023, earning him a 2nd Team All-Pro selection.
Any team looking to trade for Aiyuk would need to part with draft assets and players, and also negotiate an extension for him. This kind of move seems impractical for the Cardinals, who need to evaluate their roster following a 4-13 season. With Kyler Murray returning to health, the team needs to assess his performance as a starter. Moreover, it’s unlikely the 49ers would trade one of their top players to a division rival.
The Cardinals already bolstered their receiver lineup by selecting Marvin Harrison Jr. with the No. 4 overall pick in the 2024 NFL Draft. Harrison, known for his 6’3″ height, speed, and route-running skills, is a strong candidate for Offensive Rookie of the Year.
Once the Cardinals have a clearer picture of Murray’s capabilities as a starter, they can consider making aggressive moves for top-tier talent like Aiyuk. Assuming Aiyuk remains with the 49ers in 2024, he will likely receive the franchise tag, and this situation could be revisited next year.
