The Washington Commanders completely overhauled their roster this offseason, aiming to improve following their 4-13 record last season. Key moves included drafting Jayden Daniels and hiring Dan Quinn, with the goal of building a stronger team. To further enhance their lineup, Louie Tee of Bleacher Report suggested a trade that would send San Francisco 49ers star Brandon Aiyuk to the Commanders in exchange for a future first-round pick and Dyami Brown.
Commanders would get: Brandon Aiyuk
49ers would get: Future first-round pick, Dyami Brown
“Adding a player like Aiyuk, who is coming off a career year, would excite many fans,” Tee said on May 21. “Wide receiver is a position where Washington needs significant help.”
Aiyuk has ties to Washington’s general manager Adam Peters, who was part of the 49ers’ front office when Aiyuk was drafted in the first round of the 2020 NFL draft.
“You just need to connect the dots to see the logic,” Tee said. “Brandon Aiyuk plays for the 49ers, and Adam Peters, now Washington’s GM, was involved in drafting him in San Francisco.”
Aiyuk’s contract situation makes him a trade candidate. As he seeks a long-term deal, the 49ers and Aiyuk have not yet reached an agreement.
“If the 49ers realize they can’t finalize a deal, Aiyuk might push for a trade,” NFL Network’s Mike Garafolo said on May 21. “While there hasn’t been a trade request yet, negotiations are not close.”
The Commanders could meet Aiyuk’s needs, as they have the financial flexibility to offer him a contract. According to Spotrac, Aiyuk’s market value is a four-year, $106 million deal, averaging $26.5 million annually.
Aiyuk would benefit the Commanders, especially given his familiarity with Jayden Daniels from their time together at Arizona State. Aiyuk is coming off a season with 1,342 yards and seven touchdowns, following a 1,015-yard, eight-touchdown season.
Adding Aiyuk to a receiver corps that only had one player with over 518 yards last season would be a significant boost. With Curtis Samuel now with the Buffalo Bills, the need for a strong wide receiver is even greater. Pairing Aiyuk with Terry McLaurin could significantly enhance the Commanders’ offense.
