source: Instagram/@court.
Before signing Brandon Aiyuk to a four-year contract extension, the San Francisco 49ers explored the trade market for their star wide receiver.
They considered several teams, including the Pittsburgh Steelers, Washington Commanders, and New England Patriots. Surprisingly, the Denver Broncos were also involved in these discussions.
On Thursday, The Athletic’s Diana Russini revealed that the 49ers offered a third-round pick to Denver in exchange for receiver Courtland Sutton, as part of a potential three-team deal involving Aiyuk.
Sports Illustrated’s Albert Breer confirmed that the plan included sending Aiyuk to the Steelers for second- and third-round picks, which would then allow the 49ers to flip the third-rounder to Denver for Sutton. However, the Broncos decided against it and turned down the proposal.
Had the trade gone through, Courtland Sutton could have been a strong addition to the 49ers’ offense, providing a safety net if Aiyuk had left. However, the 49ers ultimately achieved their primary goal: retaining Aiyuk long-term to play alongside their other key offensive players — Deebo Samuel, George Kittle, and Christian McCaffrey.
Courtland Sutton, who becomes an unrestricted free agent in 2026, is gearing up for his seventh season with the Broncos.
