The Brandon Aiyuk trade rumors and 'reports' have tugged on the heartstrings of Steelers fans for months now. When Aiyuk started blowing up news cycles early in August, fans of multiple teams went through a rollercoaster of emotions.
All of this could be coming to its conclusion soon... and one that Steelers fans will love.
After learning that the New England Patriots and Washington Commanders dropped out of the race for Aiyuk, it also became evident the star receiver would not commit to signing a long-term extension in Cleveland. This left the Steelers as the last team in the trade race.
On August 7, Andrew Fillipponi of 93.7 The Fan posted a tweet that will have some fans jumping up out of their chairs.
Sources: Barring a last second change of heart from the 49ers (maybe) or Brandon Aiyuk (doubtful). The Steelers expect to trade for Aiyuk by the end of the week. At the latest. pic.twitter.com/Skm7VZNNsU
— Andrew Fillipponi (@ThePoniExpress) August 7, 2024
According to Fillipponi's sources, the Pittsburgh Steelers are expected to execute a trade for Aiyuk, barring a change of heart by the 49ers. Fillipponi suggests this deal could be finalized by the end of the week.
While the Pittsburgh radio host has been wrong in the past, he remains plugged in. This report coincides with the information I was given by my source. Several lesser-known NFL 'insiders' also doubled down with their initial reports on social media -- insisting that a trade will get done between the 49ers and Steelers for Aiyuk.
Steelers fans could soon get their wish with Brandon Aiyuk
The writing has been on the wall with this trade all along, so Steelers fans shouldn't be surprised if and when it finally comes to fruition. Aiyuk has made it abundantly clear that Pittsburgh would be one of his favorite landing spots in a trade, while general manager Omar Khan has admitted to having conversations with the 49ers about acquiring one of their star receivers.
A move like this would instantly boost Pittsburgh's offense, and ultimately, their chances of competing in the playoffs. Aiyuk is coming off a season in which he raked in 1,342 yards and 7 touchdowns on a remarkable 12.8 yards per target.
Pairing Aiyuk with George Pickens would give Russell Wilson and Justin Fields one of the best wide receiver duos in the NFL to work with (to go with what is expected to be one of the league's best rushing attacks in 2024).
In 2019, we saw the difference an elite safety made when Fitzpatrick joined the Steelers two games into the season. Aiyuk is an uber-talented player in his own right who plays a more important position. His presence on the field would move the needle for the offense.
While we still need to wait until a deal if finalized before popping the champagne, all signs seem to be pointing Brandon Aiyuk to the Pittsburgh Steelers. A move like this would give fans every reason to be optimistic about the 2024 season.