Aggressive offseason transactions set the tone for the Pittsburgh Steelers early. Winning is the top priority for Mike Tomlin and his staff -- Including Arthur Smith and his new offensive scheme. Omar Khan will not hesitate to improve the roster. His negotiating skills will be tested if he wants to acquire Brandon Aiyuk.
Another chance to improve the roster has landed at Khan's feet. The San Francisco 49ers are exploring trades in exchange for their most productive receiver. Terry Austin and his defense know Aiyuk very well.
The 2020 first-round pick was the receiver who recorded 129 yards and two touchdowns against Pittsburgh to open the 2023 campaign. Aiyuk's impressive performance was the first of many throughout the year. The 49ers star earned 1,342 yards receiving (7th) and scored seven touchdowns (t-18th).
Success is not enough for Aiyuk to remain in San Francisco. He voiced his desire to seek greener pastures - one is in Pittsburgh. The Cleveland Browns and New England Patriots are also engaged in trade conversations. They also have a framework packages that align with the 49ers' interests. There's been little progress -- leaving to door open for the right bidder.
Acquiring a skilled wide receiver will add more value to efforts made by the Steelers front office. Investing in Justin Fields was a great decision and gave Arthur Smith a quarterback to work with in the future. Omar Khan also signed Russell Wilson to a veteran minimum deal, which will prove to be another smart move.
Improvements are welcomed, so what will it take to land another premier player?
Steelers must up the ante to land Brandon Aiyuk
Winning franchises are favored by NFL fans and players. Brandon Aiyuk has stated that he wants to join a franchise ready to compete for a championship. He also has expressed interest in becoming a Pittsburgh Steeler.
It’s clear that the All-Pro wants to be a 'Yinz', but the 49ers also play a role in negotiations. San Francisco is interested in receiving player capital for Aiyuk’s services. Money alone is not enough. The team could offer a new deal, trade him, or watch him sit out in 2024. The new contract would demand more than their $28 million-per-year offer. The Steelers may be willing to pay, but do they have players to send in a trade?
If the 49ers do not receive a trade framework worthwhile, they will keep their Pro Bowl wideout on the roster - whether he sits out or not. Sitting out sounds extreme, but players have made these threats before. If the Pittsburgh Steelers are interested in Brandon Aiyuk, they must up the ante. They do not need another superstar - but it builds towards a bright future.
Gifting players away in a trade will not help Pittsburgh progress. If they land Brandon Aiyuk, it's because of a healthy contract and heavy negotiations.