Brandon Aiyuk is once again at the center of trade discussions as the 2025 NFL offseason gains momentum following the conclusion of the NFL Combine. The San Francisco 49ers are reportedly fielding calls about the talented wide receiver, creating quite the buzz as teams assess their rosters and long-term strategies.
The landscape in San Francisco has shifted recently, especially following the trade of Deebo Samuel to the Washington Commanders, which only amplifies the likelihood of Aiyuk being on the move. This move aligns with a broader strategy the 49ers’ general manager, John Lynch, has articulated: a desire to infuse youth into the roster. The 49ers are among the older teams in the league, and Lynch has been clear about the need to evolve.
A key player in this potential trade is the Chicago Bears, who are positioned well with both draft capital and a glaring need for a receiver of Aiyuk’s caliber. The Bears, looking to bolster their offense under new head coach Ben Johnson, would benefit immensely from adding Aiyuk to their roster. His skill set—particularly his ability to stretch the field and make plays after the catch—fits perfectly into the type of dynamic attack Johnson aims to implement.
Of course, trading Aiyuk comes with challenges. Just last season, the 49ers signed him to a lucrative four-year, $120 million extension, which includes a hefty $24.8 million guarantee for the upcoming season. While moving him would mean incurring a $7.2 million dead cap hit, it would also allow San Francisco to save money in the long term and continue their push to get younger.
Lynch expressed confidence in the benefits of such a trade, highlighting the 49ers’ potential advantages in the 2025 Draft. Entering the draft with multiple picks, including four in the top 100, gives the team an opportunity to reshape their roster. This approach could rejuvenate the franchise with fresh talent while establishing a foundation for sustainable success.
For the Bears, this trade presents a strategic opportunity, particularly as they focus on the development of quarterback Caleb Williams, who will enter his second season with high expectations. With the uncertainty surrounding current receivers like DJ Moore and Keenan Allen, adding Aiyuk could provide the necessary support for Williams to thrive.
While Aiyuk is on the mend from a torn ACL, his talent is undeniable, and if he regains his full strength, he can be a game-changer for Chicago. The Bears currently have ample cap space—over $79 million—for 2025, making it feasible for them to absorb Aiyuk’s contract and secure a deal.
If this trade materializes, it could reshape not only the 49ers’ immediate future but also signal a new chapter for the Bears as they look to contend in the coming seasons. With both teams poised for pivotal moves, the intrigue surrounding Aiyuk’s next destination is only just heating up.
