Dec 31, 2023; Landover, Maryland, USA; San Francisco 49ers wide receiver Brandon Aiyuk (11) celebrates with fans after defeating the Washington Commanders at FedExField. Mandatory Credit: Brad Mills-USA TODAY Sports
NFL: San Francisco 49ers at Washington Commanders
(San Francisco, CA) – As the San Francisco 49ers players and fans lick their wounds coming off their loss in Super Bowl 58, the team may need to prepare for life without one of its top playmakers.
After wide receiver Brandon Aiyuk was limited to 3 catches for 49 yards, his close friend posted on Instagram: “This is the exact reason why we leaving San Francisco,” said Draysean Hudson, continuing on his post with “Thank you 49ers for drafting my brother we are forever grateful.” Hudson’s post concluded with a suggestion Aiyuk could end up with the Raiders via an offseason trade: “BA to Vegas (with a pirate flag emoji).”
A later post from Hudson threw some shade San Francisco’s way after the Super Bowl loss. After posting the big eyes “looking” emoji, Hudson asked “Why does your All Pro 1,300 yard receiver have three catches in the Super Bowl??”
That wasn’t the only social media activity hinting at what Aiyuk may be thinking regarding his future. The wideout’s girlfriend also posted a video online calling Monday “49ers travel day of shame,” adding it could be the couple’s last time leaving Levi Stadium because “(they) might not be here next year.”
Of course, it’s worth noting Aiyuk is not entering free agency this offseason, as the team can activate his fifth-year option. That would end up paying him $14.1 million guaranteed. But he could look to force a trade if he’s not intending on signing a long term extension with the 49ers. Should that happen, a number of NFL teams will be interested in the 25-year-old playmaker.
