Sometimes where there is smoke, there is fire, and sometimes it is just smoke. Cleveland Browns fans are trying to figure out if the recent resurgence in rumors about Brandon Aiyuk joining the Browns, via a trade from the San Francisco 49ers, is smoke or fire.
Recall that these rumors were at a fever pitch weeks ago when Browns wide receiver Amari Cooper was holding out from training camp. At the time, some thought the 49ers and Browns could swap Cooper and Aiyuk. Cooper has since reported to camp with a contract structure that is amenable to him but still makes him a free agent in 2025. The Browns did not extend him; they made a more lucrative offer for 2024.
Various outlets are saying that the Browns are in the running for an Aiyuk trade. None of those outlets appears to be Cleveland-based. Mary Kay Cabot, a veteran Browns beat reporter, admitted she does not know if the Browns are currently in the Aiyuk sweepstakes but has repeatedly said they should be.
The Browns have money to pay Aiyuk, and he could be a long-term asset especially if Cooper is not on the roster in 2025.
It would not be shocking if Browns GM Andrew Berry made some calls about a possible deal; however, the bottom line is that the 49ers hold the cards. He requested a trade, but there has been no indication that the 49ers have or will honor the request.
Browns fans hoping that this rumor is more fire than smoke should know that there is still a slight possibility that a trade could happen, but it is not likely.
