Please, let this be the end.
The Brandon Aiyuk saga has dragged on for months because the 49ers reportedly haven’t even engaged in contract talks with the disgruntled wide receiver since May. But last week, they re-engaged, and now they finally have increased their offer according to The NFL Network’s Mike Garafolo.
“From what I’ve been told, Brandon Aiyuk would prefer to stay with the 49ers and has always prefered to stay with the 49ers all things being equal,” said Garafolo. “Now, they haven’t been equal. But both sides sent proposals the last couple days, and the 49ers’ number has gotten better than what it was previously. From my understanding, they have agreed on a lot of the main points of the deal. Their offers are in line. It sounds like there’s just one more thing that needs to be ironed out. And if that thing gets ironed out, Aiyuk signs the deal, he stays with the 49ers, he drops the trade request and finally the 49ers can put this situation behind them.”
The 49ers’ initial offer for Aiyuk was reported to be roughly $26 million, so it’s safe to assume the new offer is roughly $28 million. And I’m guessing the final thing that needs to be ironed out is the guaranteed money, which is no small thing. It’s probably the biggest thing. Which is why this deal still isn’t done.
Here’s my question: Why did it take until mid-August for the 49ers to up their offer? If they knew they were going to give him $28 million per season, why not do it before training camp? Makes no sense.