The San Francisco 49ers had a tough decision to make and finally made it.
49ers star receiver Brandon Aiyuk was in the news for months as he looked for a new contract. It seemed like he would be traded at one point, but he isn't going anywhere. The 49ers agreed to terms on a mammoth four-year extension with Aiyuk on Thursday putting all of the trade rumors to rest.
It does appear as though the trade rumors weren't just smoke and mirrors. San Francisco reportedly spoke to the Denver Broncos about a possible blockbuster deal involving receiver Courtland Sutton, according to The Athletic's Dianna Russini.
"The 49ers only were willing to trade Brandon Aiyuk if they could get a top-flight WR to replace him," Russini said. "They offered a third-round pick to Denver for Courtland Sutton, and then would’ve dealt Aiyuk to the (Pittsburgh Steeler)s, but the Broncos declined the offer. So, he stays in SF."
Pittsburgh was heavily linked to Aiyuk for months and it sounds like if the Broncos were willing to play ball, a trade could've actually gotten done. The 49ers and Aiyuk's representatives certainly negotiated hard, but the best result ultimately ended up happening.
Aiyuk is an integral part of the 49ers' offense and now he won't be going anywhere for the next few years. San Francisco had to hand out a large deal, but Aiyuk is worth it.
More NFL: 49ers All-Pro signs 'massive' contract extension, ends holdout, per NFL insider
