PITTSBURGH – The Pittsburgh Steelers were seemingly just racing against time in the Brandon Aiyuk saga, waiting for news on whether they would get the All-Pro wide receiver or whether he had extended his contract with the San Francisco 49ers. But after a transfer within the division shortly before the season finale, a new team has emerged as competition.
It’s actually an old team. When the rollercoaster ride began, the Steelers were one of several teams that were on the ride. By the end, the Cleveland Browns, Washington Commanders and New England Patriots had dropped out. Now the Commanders seem to be back in the game.
Speaking on San Francisco radio station KNBR, NFL insider Michael Silver said he is now considering Washington as a possible option for Aiyuk. Aiyuk played college football with Commanders quarterback Jayden Daniels and hinted that they were on his list in the offseason.
After Jahan Dotson was traded to the Eagles, Aiyuk seems to be back in the game.
“I wouldn’t rule out Washington,” Silver said. “And I know there have been reports that the Commanders are out, but they just traded a receiver today. Adam Peters and John Lynch are obviously very good at communicating on that. That’s the other team Aiyuk has targeted besides the Steelers.”
Silver later said that the Commanders and Aiyuk were “not dead.”
The Steelers’ offer for Aiyuk remains a mystery, but there are claims it’s worth up to a second-round pick. Still, Aiyuk and the 49ers continue to try to find a solution. And with Washington back in the game, things are only going to get more difficult for Pittsburgh.
If the 49ers star doesn’t work out, the Steelers will likely continue looking for a wide receiver. Sources say JuJu Smith-Schuster is one option, but there are plenty of names that are likely to be considered if Pittsburgh wants to make a deal before Week 1.
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