Brandon Aiyuk to Steelers? 4 reasons why Pittsburgh should think twice before exploring about a trade

San Francisco 49ers wide receiver Brandon Aiyuk hauled in 153 receptions for 2,357 yards and 15 touchdowns in the past two seasons. It was while sharing targets with tight end George Kittle and fellow wideout Deebo Samuel. Aiyuk’s rookie contract with the Niners will expire following the 2024 campaign. However, there hasn’t been any encouraging news regarding a renewal.

It’s no secret the receiver is disappointed as the 49ers haven’t yet offered him a significant contract extension. In fact, according to NFL Network’s Mike Garafolo, he has asked the 49ers to trade him.

The Arizona State product seems willing to sign with the Pittsburgh Steelers if his contract with the 49ers isn’t unresolved.

The Steelers have been mentioned as a potential trade option for Aiyuk during the offseason. It makes sense as the Steelers currently have one of the least talented WR groups in the league.

Let’s explore why Pittsburgh shouldn’t make a trade offer to the 49ers in exchange for Brandon Aiyuk.

Why a Brandon Aiyuk trade might not be worth it for the Steelers

Brandon Aiyuk and George Pickens would provide the Pittsburgh Steelers with a potent duo of receivers amidst the team’s quarterback situation. Still, Landing Aiyuk is probably not the best course of action for Pittsburgh unless the price is right. These are the reasons:

1. Cost

The Steelers will most likely forfeit a first-round selection in exchange for Aiyuk. Even if the 49ers WR is still a young player at 26, it doesn’t seem like the appropriate time to trade a top pick for him. They should also consider that at least six receivers in every draft seem to have early successful careers as starters.

Only elite receivers should cost first-round picks, and Aiyuk doesn’t seem to be there yet.

2. Impending New Contract

Aiyuk is in the final year of his rookie contract and will need an extension shortly. So dealing with him now might not be best for the Steelers.

Per reports, Aiyuk wanted $28 million from the San Fransisco 69ers but was offered $26 million a season. Further, the Steelers have offered lucrative deals to Justin Jefferson, A.J. Brown, Amon-Ra St. Brown, Jaylen Waddle and DeVonta Smith. So, Aiyuk would want a lucrative offer as well.

3. Quarterback Situation

The Steelers could struggle to qualify for the postseason in 2024 and might have to add a starting QB next season. They will need all the resources they can get to achieve that.

The Steelers may lose some of the resources they will require even more in the upcoming season if they decide to add Aiyuk now. It doesn’t appear right to overspend on Aiyuk at this time.

4. Aiyuk’s Attitude

The Steelers should also be concerned about Aiyuk’s emotional cost, given how he has handled his circumstances this offseason.

When players start to cause trouble, the Steelers have a reputation for cutting them off. Diontae Johnson was unhappy with the team’s QB situation and the rate of targets he was getting for a while in 2023. The Steelers had then traded him to the Carolina Panthers, demonstrating that a player cannot hold them captive.

Pittsburgh should consider whether it wants another player who is always voicing dissatisfaction before signing Aiyuk.