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Steelers, Brandon Aiyuk Talk is Real
The Pittsburgh Steelers are pursuing a move for the 49ers wideout.
PITTSBURGH -- The Pittsburgh Steelers have rumors swirling about them and a trade for San Francisco 49ers wide receiver Brandon Aiyuk. But to this point, it's all speculation. Right?
Maybe not. According to a team source, the Steelers are in talks with the 49ers about an Aiyuk trade, and while nothing is imminent, they "would be surprised if it didn't happen."
The Steelers aren't going to hand over everything they could for a veteran wide receiver. While they are interested in landing another star to pair with George Pickens and help better the adjustment for Russell Wilson, overpaying isn't on their mind.
With Aiyuk making it known on social media that he isn't pleased with negotiations over in San Francisco, it's likely becoming easier for teams to negotiate a lesser payout for the wideout. Pittsburgh has reached out multiple times throughout the offseason to test the waters, but interest levels were low. That does not appear to be the case this time.
As of now, don't put anything more than a 50% chance that a deal gets done, but if the Steelers have it their way, it appears Aiyuk will end up in Pittsburgh. When? That's anyone's guess, but this team has been consistent in their efforts at wide receiver this offseason, and making trades hasn't been a slow process for general manager Omar Khan.
The 26-year-old is coming off back-to-back 1,000-yard seasons and has 3,931 receiving yards and 25 touchdowns in four years with the 49ers.
The Steelers are continuing to scout wide receivers in the NFL Draft, and reports claim they've talked about acquiring Stefon Diggs and Tee Higgins this offseason. Right now, however, Aiyuk is the name to watch.
