Aiyuk and the former head coach have earned parallels based on their appearance, but the receiver took it a step further Tuesday while mocking — and confounding — the NFL world as he impatiently waits for word on a contract extension with San Francisco.
The Steelers have “shown interest” and “looked into Aiyuk” as he enters the final year of his contract, Pittsburgh “93.7 The Fan” radio host Andrew Fillipponi reported Tuesday morning, citing sources. Pittsburgh would take over Aiyuk’s $14 million salary this season and would be expected to sign him to a long-term deal if they make a play for the wideout.
And clearly, the Steelers aren’t the only team interested in potentially completing a deal for Aiyuk.
"[The #Steelers are]… not going to give up the world for Brandon Aiyuk." – @jhathhorn
Reports suggest the #Steelers are being outbid for WR Brandon Aiyuk@_adamcrowley @scorindorinLISTEN: https://t.co/ubmTnNrLws / @Audacy app
WATCH: https://t.co/oVsylvSkDp > 93.7 The Fan pic.twitter.com/zZK0220vY9— 93.7 The Fan (@937theFan) August 6, 2024
The Jacksonville Jaguars also have shown interest in the Arizona State product, and San Francisco’s asking price for their best receiver was the No. 17 overall pick and Jaguars wide Zay Jones, Jacksonville radio host and Jaguars reporter Mia O’Brien stated Monday.
However, because Aiyuk still has one year left on his current 49ers contract, the talks between the two clubs are “fizzling out”.
Of course, the 49ers Faithful shouldn’t be too frightened just yet, as this type of action by athletes waiting for a high contract isn’t unusual. It could all just be part of the game that keeps Aiyuk in the Bay alongside his partner-in-crime Deebo Samuel, who feels his sidekick isn’t going anywhere anytime soon.
Aiyuk is coming off the biggest season of his NFL career, posting 1,342 receiving yards in 2023 while being a key to the 49ers’ star-studded offense that fell just short in Super Bowl LVIII.
