In a surprising twist that has football fans buzzing, San Francisco 49ers’ wide receiver Brandon Aiyuk has reportedly turned down a significant trade offer from the New England Patriots. According to NBC’s Matt Maiocco, who has covered the 49ers for over three decades, the deal was already negotiated between the two teams. However, Aiyuk showed no interest in joining the Patriots, despite the offer being in the ballpark of $30 million per season.
Maiocco shared on Twitter: “The Patriots had an agreement in place with the 49ers and a large offer to Aiyuk on the table, but he did not show interest in going there.”
This decision has notably pleased fans of the Miami Dolphins, along with supporters of the other AFC East teams, as they will avoid facing Aiyuk twice a season. While there had been enticing imagery from Dolphins fans envisioning an offensive powerhouse featuring Tyreek Hill, Jaylen Waddle, and Aiyuk, the financial and strategic logistics ultimately didn’t align. The Dolphins have already invested heavily in their current trio of Hill, Waddle, and quarterback Tua Tagovailoa.
Aiyuk’s refusal is a significant development, particularly given the Patriots’ recent struggles to remain competitive at the highest league tiers. Instead, Aiyuk remains with the 49ers, ensuring that the balance of power in the AFC East remains unchanged for now. This move or, more accurately, non-move, has certainly stirred discussions around loyalty, strategy, and the business dynamics within the NFL.