The San Francisco 49ers moved on from a few key players this offseason, and one NFL analyst believes wide receiver Brandon Aiyuk could be the next out of San Francisco.
Aiyuk signed a four-year extension worth $120 million with the 49ers last offseason, but he played just seven games in 2024 due to a torn ACL and MCL and was underwhelming even when on the field.
With Deebo Samuel no longer in the picture, as he was traded to the Washington Commanders this offseason, Aiyuk will be the top boundary receiver for San Francisco in 2025. However, NFL Analysis Network’s John Porter believes the 49ers could trade Aiyuk, and the Las Vegas Raiders are a logical destination for the veteran receiver.
Looking at the Raiders’ WR depth chart, they could use an influx of proven talent, and Aiyuk represents the best of those likely available out there. It would almost be a no-brainer for the Raiders if he were available.
Las Vegas could use another receiver on the perimeter to help out Jakobi Meyers. Aiyuk, who posted 1,342 yards and seven touchdowns in 16 games in 2023, would give quarterback Geno Smith another capable receiving threat and fill one of the biggest remaining needs on the Raiders’ offense.
Though Aiyuk could be in for a bounce-back season and help Pete Carroll’s squad, there’s a slim chance that this happens. The 49ers are unlikely to trade their top wideout when training camp is just a few weeks away, and Aiyuk is still under contract until 2029.
For Las Vegas, they need another veteran pass-catcher. However, the team also used two draft picks on young receivers in April, Jack Bech in Round 2 and Dont’e Thornton in Round 4. The Raiders should see what they have in Bech and Thornton instead of trading for an expensive receiver coming off a significant injury in Aiyuk.
