San Francisco general manager John Lynch confirmed he’s had talks with other teams about Aiyuk but cautioned the odds of a deal aren’t high, saying the team will “see it through the draft” and reassess if nothing materializes afterward.
If the 49ers eventually release Aiyuk, Washington could offer him a soft landing on a value, likely short-term contract. Industry projections place his market value around $12 million on a one-year deal after injuries and a recent contract dispute limited his guarantees.
Aiyuk is a former second-team All-Pro who has totaled 294 catches for 4,305 yards and 25 touchdowns across 69 games (67 starts). He missed the last season and a half due to serious knee injury and rehabilitation fallout, facts that have influenced his current market and the trade landscape.
For Washington, the draft remains pivotal, holding the No. 7 and No. 71 picks in the first two days. If Aiyuk isn’t available via trade or free agency, Todd McShay suggests Sonny Styles could be the preferred target at No. 7, with Jeremiah Love also in the mix if he’s on the board. The team also faces needs in the secondary, where a cornerback such as Mansoor Delane could be in consideration.
In any scenario, Aiyuk’s addition would help the Commanders buy time to rebuild the aging roster and address their top skill-position need, potentially shaping their long-term trajectory in the NFC East. Even if he isn’t a long-term fixture, his presence could accelerate Washington’s roster construction while they pursue broader improvements.
