This week, disgruntled receiver Brandon Aiyuk met with the 49ers to discuss his future with the team. Despite reports that Aiyuk had expressed frustration about not wanting to return, ESPN’s Ryan Clark reported that the two sides were meeting. The details of these talks are currently unclear, but it is known that Aiyuk has been seeking a contract extension and has skipped the entire offseason program, including the mandatory minicamp. He is currently under contract for the fifth-year option of $14.1 million in 2024 but is reportedly seeking $30 million or more per year.
Aiyuk’s demand for a significant raise has led to an impasse in negotiations with the 49ers, and it remains uncertain whether he will be back on the team next season. However, if he does sign a new deal, it will likely set a new standard in the wide receiver market.
Other receivers like Justin Jefferson of the Vikings ($35 million per season), A.J. Brown of the Eagles ($32 million per season), Amon-Ra St. Brown of the Lions ($30 million per season), and Jaylen Waddle of the Dolphins ($28.25 million per season) have all signed contract extensions this offseason at premium prices. Jefferson’s four-year extension broke new ground in the wide receiver market by averaging $35 million per season, making him one of the highest-paid non-quarterbacks in NFL history.
Despite their differences over salary expectations, Aiyuk had an impressive performance last year as he made 75 receptions for 1,342 yards and seven touchdowns. The outcome of his negotiations with San Francisco will determine not only his future with the team but also his earning potential in a league where top receivers are paid handsomely for their skills.
As such, keeping an eye on these negotiations will be crucial in determining how much money other receivers can expect to make in upcoming years and how they may impact teams’ decision-making processes when it comes to extending contracts for their star players.
