San Francisco 49ers General Manager John Lynch found himself deflecting questions regarding wide receiver Brandon Aiyuk’s contract situation during a pre-draft press conference on Monday.
Aiyuk, who is slated to earn $14.12 million this year, has expressed a desire for a new deal. However, Lynch remained tight-lipped when asked if Aiyuk’s agent had been permitted to explore trade options.
“I’m not going to get into all those details,” Lynch interjected, cutting off the question. “We’re really focused on B.A. being part of us. He’s under contract and we’re looking forward to that.”
49ers G.M. John Lynch cuts off question as to whether he has given WR Brandon Aiyuk's agent to seek a trade. https://t.co/m0BRNWQQvV
— ProFootballTalk (@ProFootballTalk) April 22, 2024
Despite Lynch’s evasion, speculation persists that Aiyuk’s agent may have been granted permission to gauge interest from other teams. The Steelers reportedly inquired about Aiyuk’s availability earlier in the offseason but were rebuffed by the 49ers.
Lynch expressed the team’s desire to retain Aiyuk long-term, stating, “Our wish is that he’s here and a part of the Niners for the rest of his career.” However, he acknowledged ongoing negotiations while respecting the confidentiality of contract discussions.
Regarding Aiyuk’s absence from offseason workouts, Lynch attributed it to the receiver’s leverage in contract negotiations. He also hinted at the possibility of a trade but stopped short of providing a definitive answer.
“I wouldn’t anticipate that,” Lynch said when asked about the likelihood of a trade this week, offering yet another non-committal response.
While Aiyuk has not formally requested a trade, the unresolved contract dispute leaves open the possibility of a move in the coming days.
