‘Bold’ Dan Orlovsky admits 49ers offense won’t function the same without Brandon Aiyuk

Brandon Aiyuk is open to playing elsewhere if that’s what the 49ers want. 

‘Bold’ Dan Orlovsky admits 49ers offense won’t function the same without Brandon Aiyuk

Dan Orlovsky and Brandon Aiyuk (Via Imago)

Lately, San Francisco 49ers’ Brandon Aiyuk has been quite in the news regarding his contract situation. Given the time the wideout has been spending with the Washington Commanders’ rookie quarterback Jayden Daniels, there have also been trade rumors, which were later confirmed by ESPN’s Adam Schefter. 

The Niners reportedly discussed trading their receiver No. 2 to the Commanders briefly after not reaching any satisfactory conclusion to the contract negotiations. Ryan Clark also added to the ongoing rumors sharing that Aiyuk is open to playing elsewhere if that’s what the 49ers want. 

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While talking on the subjects, ESPN analyst Dan Orlovsky highlighted something which has been definitely occurring in everyone’s mind but no one’s been talking about it. He argued that the Niners’ star-studded offense wouldn’t function the same without Aiyuk, considering he contributed more than receiver No. 1 in the team’s run for the Super Bowl last season. 

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The former NFL quarterback even claimed that there are merely three to four wide receivers “as or more important value-wise” than the 2023 Second-team All-Pro. 

This [49ers] offense can’t and won’t function the same unless he’s on the field. How many guys in the league are asked to do as much from the wide receiver spot when it comes to moving all around, attacking the middle of the field, being comfortable, confident, and reliable in the middle of the field, and being a viable threat in the red zone.
Dan Orlovsky said

Orlovsky’s high words for Aiyuk underscore his importance in the 49ers’ offensive identity and schemes. That is to say, the team has built their attack surround Aiyuk’s versatility, trading him might cost them a hefty price. 

Brandon Aiyuk’s future with the 49ers uncertain as contract talks continue

Even though the Niners did explore the trading option regarding Aiyuk doesn’t mean the franchise does not want him back, which the receiver is fixated upon. In fact, head coach Kyle Shanahan is constantly meeting up with the receiver to reach a satisfactory deal. 

Aiyuk’s first preference is also the 49ers, however, if the franchise doesn’t succeed in offering him a satisfactory deal, he is open to playing elsewhere, especially since he has bonded with Daniels. 

Kyle Shanahan and Brandon Aiyuk
Kyle Shanahan and Brandon Aiyuk (Via NBC Sports)

Aiyuk is seeking a contract close to one of the highest paid in the league: Amon-Ra St. Brown’s four-year contract worth $120 million, if not Justin Jefferson’s $140 million.

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