San Francisco 49ers wide receiver Brandon Aiyuk has had a tough start to the 2024 season. After inking a four-year, $120 million contract extension on August 30, the fifth-year player has struggled to make an impact offensively.
In four games, Aiyuk has recorded just 13 receptions on 25 targets for 167 yards, averaging 12.8 yards per catch. This is a stark contrast to his 2023 performance, when he earned second-team All-Pro honors with 75 catches, a career-high 1,342 yards, and seven touchdowns. So far this season, he hasn’t surpassed 48 yards in a single game.
Meanwhile, over in Las Vegas, three-time All-Pro wide receiver Davante Adams has reportedly requested a Trade from the Raiders. NFL Network insiders Ian Rapoport and Mike Garafolo broke the news on October 1 via X.
The 49ers have already committed top dollar to Aiyuk, but could a trade involving Adams be feasible? Sanjesh Singh of NBC Sports considers it unlikely but lists the 49ers as an “honorable mention” trade candidate for the Raiders’ star receiver.
If the Raiders were to acquire Aiyuk, they would be gaining a player under contract for a longer period than Adams, who is in the third year of a five-year, $140 million deal. Adams’ contract includes a potential out in 2025, after he receives $67 million in guaranteed money. This financial flexibility could make him attractive to the 49ers, as it allows for more maneuvering in the future.
“The 49ers couldn’t possibly add another star, could they? They could, but it would require losing one,” Singh wrote. He noted that while Aiyuk remained in San Francisco, his production thus far—13 catches for 167 yards and no touchdowns—hasn’t justified his contract. Acquiring Adams might give the 49ers a proven, motivated receiver, while the Raiders would receive a younger player with long-term potential.
Though it’s an intriguing scenario, the Niners are unlikely to pursue it. Additionally, rumors suggest that Adams has other preferred destinations.
Reports indicate that Adams is eyeing the New York Jets and New Orleans Saints as his top landing spots, according to ESPN. His connection to former quarterbacks Derek Carr (now with the Saints) and Aaron Rodgers (with the Jets) could be a factor. Adams made six Pro Bowl appearances during his time with Carr and Rodgers. One team may have an edge, though.
“The Saints are a team to watch for Davante Adams…they believe they are close,” former NFL quarterback Chase Daniel wrote on X on October 2.
While an Adams-for-Aiyuk trade isn’t entirely out of the question, Aiyuk’s slow start is more likely a result of his missed training camp and preseason due to contract negotiations. Though he’s had a rough beginning, this alone probably isn’t enough to prompt a trade.
