Cleveland or New England?
We have a developing situation. according to a recent report from NBC Sports Bay Area the 49ers have “negotiated the framework of trades” that would send Bradon Aiyuk to the Patriots or Browns. The Patriots have been attempting to acquire Aiyuk for months, and it has been a slow process from their side, according to sources.
Aiyuk, 26, reported for the 49ers’ training camp but has not practiced as he seeks a new deal. The 49ers also have to be comfortable with any trade compensation, and are willing to keep Aiyuk but the 49ers haven’t engaged in substantive contract talks for months. He remains tied to the 49ers on a rookie deal that is scheduled to pay him $14.124 million this season.
Now the question is. Would your rather play for the Browns or Patriots?
Cleveland was a playoff team last season and has Deshaun Watson at quarterback and talent on both side of the ball. The Browns would be in a position to add Aiyuk if wide receiver Amari Cooper were sent to the 49ers as part of the trade, Mary Kay Cabot of Cleveland.com reported. The Steelers are Aiyuk’s preferred destination but the hold up is trade compensation.
The Patriots are expected to include former 49ers wide receiver Kendrick Bourne as part of the deal if Aiyuk were to accept New England’s offer. The Patriots drafted Drake Maye third overall and would add an impact receiver for their young QB.
Many have turned down the Patriots offensive coordinator job and they couldn’t lure players in free agency. If it’s just money, Bourne and a low round pick is a steal for the Patriots. If Aiyuk cares about winning he will choose Cleveland. If it’s about money and a chance to be the number one receiver, the Patriots have a legitimate chance to acquire one of the top receivers on the league. I still feel like this is another attempt for the 49ers to get Aiyuk to play for them as they are in win now mode. I think he stays in San Francisco or ends up in Pittsburgh. Cleveland and New England just don’t seem like great destinations. My money is on neither.
