Brandon Aiyuk and Deebo Samuel are both still members of the San Francisco 49ers despite intense trade speculation surrounding both of the All-Pro receivers.
It was reported by Mike Silver of The San Francisco Chronicle ahead of day two of the 2024 NFL Draft that Samuel was likely to be traded after the 49ers spent their first-round selection on Florida wideout Ricky Pearsall.
However, speaking at a press conference after the end of the third round, 49ers general manager John Lynch insisted a trade of Samuel or Aiyuk was never a consideration on day two.
"We didn’t entertain any of that today," Lynch said "We’re happy with our wide receiver group. Actually, more than happy. We’re thrilled with it. And thrilled to add Ricky to it to make it stronger.”
Given the level of noise around Samuel, with Silver reporting the Pittsburgh Steelers had shown an interest and Mike Giardi of The Boston Sports Journal claiming the Buffalo Bills and New England Patriots had done the same, it's difficult to believe Lynch did not at least pick up the phone on a trade offer for the receiver at some point on Friday.
But it doesn't matter now, with the draft moving to day three, any realistic chance of either Aiyuk or Samuel being dealt is gone. Though the Niners have said they are comfortable with Aiyuk playing on the fifth-year option, it will likely soon become simply a matter of when he signs an extension that makes him one of the highest-paid receivers in the NFL.
It will be very expensive for the 49ers, but their resolve to keep their star-studded offensive cast together means they will get at least one more year of Aiyuk and Samuel excelling as one of the league's elite wide receiver duos.
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