The New England Patriots might have secured Stefon Diggs, but that doesn’t mean their search for wide receiver talent is over. In reality, the team still needs more support at the position. While the NFL Draft offers a straightforward option to bolster their roster, exploring the trade market could also be on the table.
One name recently linked to New England is San Francisco 49ers standout Brandon Aiyuk, who’s been floated as a possible trade target. However, ESPN’s Adam Schefter has dampened hopes of the Patriots landing him, pointing out that Aiyuk is set to receive a $22.85 million roster bonus from the 49ers on Tuesday, making a trade unlikely.
Schefter noted on X, “Once that bonus is paid by the 49ers, trade discussions for Aiyuk would likely end, and he’d be staying in San Francisco for the 2025 season. Tuesday essentially serves as an unofficial deadline for any deal, and nothing is expected to happen by then.”
Last year, the Patriots tried to acquire Aiyuk, but with only one year left on his contract at the time, he made it clear he wouldn’t sign an extension with them, halting any deal. Now, circumstances have shifted—San Francisco signed Aiyuk to a four-year, $120 million contract before the 2024 season, securing him through 2028.
So, why might the 49ers consider moving him? Financial pressures are mounting for San Francisco, and Aiyuk’s season was cut short by a torn ACL. Even before the injury, his production was modest, with 25 receptions for 374 yards over seven games.
For the Patriots, Aiyuk might represent too risky a pickup anyway. But it seems they won’t even get the chance to seriously pursue him.
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