Brandon Aiyuk Speaks on Potential Contract Extension With the 49ers

For the first time this offseason, Brandon Aiyuk speaks on his potential contract extension with the 49ers.

Feb 7, 2024; Las Vegas, NV, USA; San Francisco 49ers wide receiver Brandon Aiyuk (11) during a press | Kyle Terada-USA TODAY Sports

Brandon Aiyuk has remained quiet on his contract extension negotiations with the San Francisco 49ers.

Only a few cryptic social media messages, if you can even call them that, is what he has possibly communicated regarding it. That all ended when he appeared on the Nightcap podcast with Shannon Sharpe and Chad Johnson on Thursday night.

"I'm trying to get what I deserve," Aiyuk said (h/t Ian Casselberry).

"I feel like this season, this season playing football, I figured out who I was as a person and a player, what I bring to the table, what I bring to the locker room, what I bring to the organization. And just the value I hold when I walk in that building."

Aiyuk is absolutely right. He needs to get what he deserves and his value on the 49ers was proven last season. In fact, he's been proving it each and every year since he was drafted. Aiyuk has improved upon his previous seasons in all four years.

The arrow is cemented in pointing upward for Aiyuk. Wide receivers can typically be replaced, but Aiyuk isn't one the 49ers should consider for that. Pay him what he is due. He put up 75 receptions for a career-high 1,342 yards (averaging 17.9 yards per catch) and seven touchdowns last season.

Oh yea, he also got an All-Pro honor. No big deal.

What also doesn't get shown in stats is how excellent and vicious of a run blocker he is. Aiyuk is the perfect receiver for the 49ers and one that will be invaluable to the ascension of Brock Purdy.