With training camp and the preseason now
complete, the sense of urgency has intensified for Aiyuk to
return with the season opener set for Sept. 9 at home against
the New York Jets.
Aiyuk has long contended that he has earned more contract
security through a lucrative extension, saying in March that he
is "trying to get what I deserve."
The No. 25 pick in the 2020 NFL Draft, Aiyuk is scheduled to
earn $14.124 million in 2024 on the fifth-year team option
linked to his rookie deal.
Aiyuk, 26, topped the 49ers with 75 receptions and 1,342 yards
and caught seven touchdowns in 16 games in 2023. He has 269
catches for 3,931 yards and 25 touchdowns in 62 career games (60
starts).
Reports have indicated there has been interest from other clubs
like the New England Patriots, Pittsburgh Steelers and Cleveland
Browns. Those reports indicate that the Steelers and Browns are
set to deliver on a contract extension in a potential trade.
Yet there remains no resolution to the standoff.
"I'm not going to get into our communication again," 49ers
general manager John Lynch said about the matter Wednesday. "At
some point, you gotta play."
Said 49ers head coach Kyle Shanahan: "I haven't heard anything.
I've been working on the 53-(man roster) and the practice squad.
I haven't talked to him. I know he's been cleared by our doctors
so I hope that he's out there practicing."
With medical clearance complete, the 49ers can now enact fines
and/or a suspension against Aiyuk for refusing to participate in
practices.
--Field Level Media [© 2024 Thomson Reuters. All rights
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