Because of their need for a wide receiver, the Pittsburgh Steelers have often been speculated about as a possible landing spot for San Francisco 49ers wide receiver Brandon Aiyuk.
As it turns out, the Steelers did at least inquire about the disgruntled wideout, who is seeking a new contract ahead of the 2024 campaign. Per NFL Network's Mike Garafolo, that came at some time around or before the 2024 NFL Draft.
He adds that he doesn't believe the Steelers would be in on Aiyuk now, even if the Niners made him available.
"My understanding is they at least investigated the possibility of trading for Brandon Aiyuk around draft time or before draft time," Garafolo said. "And the 49ers, as they did with all teams, shut that down. So, it was never really a thing but it doesn't hurt to ask."
"I don't sense that they would be in it for him anytime soon, even if the 49ers open it up," Garafolo added.
On Thursday, general manager Omar Khan revealed there is nothing new going on in terms of bringing in a wide receiver, and he also stated he's happy with the group he has now.
Omar Khan says there's "nothing ongoing right now" regarding a WR trade
— Brooke Pryor (@bepryor) July 25, 2024
"If there's ever an opportunity to upgrade, regardless of the receiver room, whatever the room is, we're going to look at it," Khan said. "You guys have heard me say that before, but I feel good about the room we have right now. We have a lot of talented players in there, guys that contribute, guys that can do different things. The room, for me, I'm excited about it. I'm excited to see these guys work, and it's Day 1."
Niners general manager John Lynch didn't completely rule out trading Aiyuk on Tuesday, but made it clear the team intends to keep him.
"We fully intend on Brandon being a Niner moving forward," Lynch said. "We're always open to listen to things, but like I said, we expect Brandon to be an integral part of our team like he has been and excited about that."
Of course, even if Khan was close to a trade for any receiver, he wouldn't say as much. But he can't possibly be completely content with the shaky — at best — wide receivers room he currently has.
Pittsburgh should be exploring any and all options to upgrade the group.
