Bleacher Report marked the Giants as a very good, under the radar landing spot for Aiyuk, who back in the day was poised to become a top-tier wideout in this league. While the Giants brought in Darnell Mooney, the need for another high-upside receiver is still there.

WR1 Malik Nabers is recovering from knee surgery. As the piece on Aiyuk said, “It’s not like Aiyuk would cost a lot in terms of draft capital. His arrival would alleviate some of the pressure on Nabers to rush back onto the field. And once he is back, a Nabers/Aiyuk duo could blossom into one of the better one-two punches at the wide receiver position in the NFL.“

Aiyuk to the NY Giants could discard Odell Beckham Jr.

One thing that has to be clear is that only one can arrive. It’s either Aiyuk on a buy-low trade with the 49ers, or Odell Beckham Jr. Hence, the Giants have a decision to make. Either they go for the upside-yet-unknown move for Aiyuk, or they go the nostalgic route for OBJ.

Both players haven’t played in the NFL for nearly two years, which means both are cheap but risky moves. In the end, the Giants can take the risk and hope for the best, as long as they keep it low-cost.

The Giants are key pieces away from real success

When you look at what the New York Giants have done this offseason, it’s not out of the realm of imagination that if they remain healthy and add a few pieces, the team could really make some noise in the NFC for years to come.

Hence, every single move they do has to be with surgical precision. One mistake could put the Giants in the very situation they want to escape from. On the contrary, one home run and the team could accelerate their path towards success.

Speaking to NBCSports Bay Area, Purdy said, “Obviously, we have what it takes to go all the way and win it, that’s when we’re at full strength and good to go. But even though we are at full strength and full health, that’s not guaranteed. That’s the cool thing about the guys we have in the locker room and organization: No one just sits there and says, ‘Oh, look at our roster and how beautiful it looks.’”

The 49ers have dealt with injury-plagued after injury-plagued season. Hence, the expectations around them have dimmed. But for Purdy, the team is still there, knocking on the door of a Super Bowl victory.

The 49ers have brought key pieces to win it all

The 49ers feel like they are just a few pieces away, so while they didn’t bring a lot of names, they did bring impact players to fill the holes on the roster. For instance, Jauan Jennings left the team and Brandon Aiyuk might do the same, but they brought in a massive upgrade in WR Mike Evans, and a veteran presence in Christian Kirk.

The 49ers also traded for defensive tackle Osa Odighizuwa. Free agency saw them sign defensive end Cam Sample, and cornerback Jack Jones. Those names will bolster the defense and give depth to the squad.

Brock Purdy and Mike Evans could be a problem

While some people are still not fond of giving Brock Purdy a good rating, numbers speak for themselves. Purdy is a winner, and while not an elite quarterback, he is excellent. Now he has a Super Bowl winner and future Hall of Famer in Mike Evans, and things could propel to the sky.

Evans is a certified threat, especially in the red zone. Purdy is very accurate. And, to make it better, defenses will still have to deal or worry about players like tight end George Kittle, running back Christian McCaffrey, and a certain Kyle Shanahan calling the plays.

Every year, the schedule release becomes a major event as supporters finally discover the path their teams will face during the upcoming season. Beyond simple dates and opponents, the announcement shapes expectations, rivalries, playoff projections and primetime storylines months before kickoff arrives.

Even before the full schedule becomes official, several important details about the 2026 season are already known. The NFL Kickoff game is scheduled for Wednesday, September 9, when the defending Super Bowl champions Seattle Seahawks will host an opponent still to be determined. One day later, the Los Angeles Rams will face the San Francisco 49ers in Melbourne, Australia, marking the first regular-season NFL game ever played in the country.

NFL preparing massive international schedule for 2026

The league is also expected to feature nine international games during the 2026 season as the NFL continues aggressively expanding its global presence. London will host three games, including two involving the Jacksonville Jaguars and another featuring the Washington Commanders.

Mexico City is also expected to return to the schedule, with the Miami Dolphins and 49ers viewed as a possible matchup as San Francisco will be the home team.

Meanwhile, the Dallas Cowboys and Baltimore Ravens are expected to play in Rio de Janeiro, while Madrid, Spain, will host a game featuring the Atlanta Falcons as the designated home team.

Germany will also remain part of the international rotation with a game in Munich involving the Detroit Lions. In addition, the NFL is preparing its first-ever regular-season game in France, where the New Orleans Saints are expected to serve as hosts in Paris.

According to David Lombardi analysis on X, the strategy for the 2026 NFL season involves a significant increase in versatility, moving away from a predictable scheme to one that utilizes multiple looks. Morris could plan to expand the use of five-man fronts and incorporate more outside linebacker drops to keep high-powered modern offenses off-balance throughout the year.

The timing is perfect for Morris, as the 49ers’ defensive roster has undergone a major youth movement over the last 14 months. Aside from Nick Bosa, the defensive line has seen a total turnover, “transforming the unit from one of the oldest in the NFL into the third-youngest” Lombardi wrote.

Morris already thinking about the Super Bowl

The ultimate prize is clearly at the forefront of the new coordinator’s mind as he begins his journey in the Bay Area. When asked about his championship aspirations, Morris replied, “Ultimately, as a competitor, it’s what you want to do. It’s something I think about every single day.”

Morris, who previously won a title as the Rams’ defensive coordinator, is eager to bring that same success to his new home. He noted, “Nothing would be more satisfying for me than to come here and help this organization, head coach, general manager, owner, this team. You get chills just thinking about it.”

With a wealth of experience ranging from head coaching stints in Tampa Bay and Atlanta to his defensive success in Los Angeles, Morris is ready for the pressure. “To have the ability to do that and help people do that is what you coach for, and it’s the ultimate goal,” he concluded.

According to insider Matt Maiocco on KNBR, the offer was in the neighborhood of $17 million per season for Jennings to sign a multiyear extension before last year. Maiocco noted, “I think Jennings was looking for far north of $20M a year. Jauan figured ‘I’ll bet on myself and go out and have a good season, and get that contract.’”

The analysis suggests that Jennings’ gamble didn’t exactly pay off as he had hoped, as he recently signed a one-year deal with the Minnesota Vikings worth up to $13 million. Maiocco added that by not meeting that high price, the 49ers saved significant funds they later invested into veterans Mike Evans and Christian Kirk.

De’Zhaun Stribling takes the WR3 mantle

While Jennings moves on to the Vikings, the 49ers have already found his replacement in rookie De’Zhaun Stribling, their second-round pick out of Mississippi. Stribling brings a fresh dynamic to the offense after recording 811 yards and six touchdowns in his final college season, standing ready to fill the “big slot” role.

Jennings leaves behind a legacy in San Francisco as a “third-and-Jauan” NFL specialist, having posted 55 receptions for 643 yards and a career-high 9 touchdowns in 2025. His departure marks the end of a successful half-decade where his blocking and contested-catch ability made him a fan favorite in the Bay Area.

With rookie number 15 now in the building, the 49ers’ depth chart remains explosive even without Jennings’ veteran presence. As Stribling integrates into the system, the team hopes his elite speed and vertical threat will complement their existing stars and justify the front office’s decision to pivot away from a $20 million price tag.

Appearing on the Rich Eisen Show, Shanahan said “I know there’s a chance to” Kittle playing in the season opener on September 10, where the 49ers will play the Rams in Melbourne, Australia.

Shanahan also stated that Kittle is working hard in his rehab. He suffered the injury on January 11th, in the Wild Card round against the Philadelphia Eagles. Kittle is 32 years old, but he is as productive as ever.

Shanahan cherishes Kittle for many reasons

Not only is Kittle a role model, with no off-field issues, but he is also an incredible football players. Kittle, as a tight end, is a superstar. He catches the ball as good as anyone, and he is arguably one of the best blocking tight ends in the league.

Hence, Shanahan loves having him. He sees Kittle as a leader of men, but also as a guy that can help both in the passing game, and in the running game. Shanahan is a run-game savant, so having an elite blocker like Kittle is music to his ears.

The 49ers suffered way too many injuries in 2025

The 49ers saw Nick Bosa, Mykel Williams, and Kittle get season-ending injuries, with Bosa and Williams suffering ACL tears. Fred Warner also suffered a significant ankle injury. Brock Purdy, Ricky Pearsall, Yetur Gross-Matos, all were sidelined for weeks too.

Even players who were relevant all season long, like Christian McCaffrey and Jauan Jennings, played under a plethora of injuries. McCaffrey’s injuries were more of a wear-and-tear matter, while Jennings played games while having broken ribs. The team hopes 2026 brings a bit more health to their roster.

By trading out of the first round, the 49ers went from six to eight picks. Per Shanahan, “That’s kind of what we were hoping for,” as he told Rich Eisen. “Our first goal was that the guy we wanted would fall to 27, but we got our second goal, and that was to trade back twice, accumulate some more picks, and still get the guy.

The 49ers ended up picking wideout De’Zhaun Stribling with the 33rd pick. According to Shanahan, they would’ve drafted him at 30. Stribling was projected as a third-rounder. Therefore, it was an eye-opening statement that they were even willing to pick him at 30.

De’Zhaun Stribling’s profile

A five-year College Football player, Stribling is a big, tall player that has a great straight-line speed, as his 4.36-second 40-yard dash showed. He is a great vertical threat. Stribling also has great hands, but he has a very specific skill set. He goes deep, that’s it.

Stribling doesn’t have great release or change of directions. However, given that the 49ers have people like Mike Evans and Ricky Pearsall on the roster, what they lack is a true vertical threat, the rest is covered. Hence, it was mostly the fact that they could fill a hole on the roster by picking Stribling.

The 49ers projected offensive lineup in 2026

The offensive line will be spearheaded by left tackle Trent Williams joined by guards Robert Jones and Dominick Puni, center Jake Brendel, and right tackle Colton McKivitz. They will be in charge of pass protection and run blocking. As for Stribling, he’s not expected to be a starter.

QB- Brock Purdy
RB- Christian McCaffrey
TE- George Kittle*
LWR- Mike Evans
RWR- Ricky Pearsall
SWR- Christian Kirk

*Nursing injury.

The insights provided by Adam Schefter during a recent appearance on 49ers Access with Sterling Bennett suggest that the receiver’s current contract is the primary sticking point. “I think the reason a team is not trading for him right now is they don’t want to assume the current contract that he has,” Schefter explained on the show, noting that his silence has stalled any forward progress.

Schefter further elaborated that the communication breakdown is a league-wide issue, as rival executives have also hit a wall when trying to reach the playmaker. “It’s a situation where he hasn’t been in clear and constant communication with the Niners and they have had a hard time getting a hold of him,” he added, suggesting teams may avoid the drama when there are plenty of top offensive players available in the NFL market right now without such baggage.

What happens if the 49ers can’t find a trade for Aiyuk?

If a trade partner doesn’t materialize, San Francisco will have to decide whether to force a “hold-in” situation or cave to Aiyuk’s high-end contract demands. Given his current cap hit, the 49ers are essentially holding an elite asset that they cannot effectively utilize or move unless the player re-establishes a professional dialogue with the front office.

Aiyuk’s value remains historically high following a 2023 season where he hauled in 75 catches for over 1,342 yards and seven TDs, proving to be on the most reliable target in Kyle Shanahan’s system. However, his absence from voluntary workouts have made rival teams wary of the high price of admission.

Until the communication barrier is broken, Aiyuk remains in a state of limbo that could potentially bleed into the start of training camp and the regular season. For a team with Super Bowl aspirations like the 49ers, having their top receiving threat disconnected from the organization is a distraction they desperately need to resolve before September.

“No new update right now,” Lynch told reporters when asked about the wide receiver status, per Ari Meirov. “Like I said earlier, I think it is the prudent thing to do (trade).

“He’s an extremely talented player, he’s been an extremely effective player in our league. The situation didn’t work itself out here, that’s not to say it cannot be rekindled somewhere else. We’d be happy to do something with anyone if the opportunity presented itself.”

Aiyuk did not see game action during 2025 after suffering a serious injury. In addition, his massive contract is another factor why the 49ers would be looking for a different destination for him. What will ultimately be his place going forward?

Aiyuk’s contract situation

As of April 2026, Brandon Aiyuk’s contract situation with the San Francisco 49ers has reached a critical inflection point following a tumultuous period. Although he signed a massive four-year, $120 million extension in August 2024, the relationship has soured significantly after Aiyuk missed the entire 2025 season due to a torn ACL and subsequent friction with the front office.

Crucially, the 49ers voided his $27 million salary guarantees for 2026 late last year, citing his failure to fulfill contractual obligations. Following the 2026 NFL Draft this past weekend, General Manager John Lynch confirmed that while Aiyuk remains on the roster, the team is actively seeking a trade partner.

However, a move is more likely to occur after June 1st, as the dead money hit to the 49ers’ salary cap would drop from nearly $30 million to just over $8 million, effectively signaling the end of his tenure in San Francisco.

Are there any suitors for Aiyuk?

The Washington Commanders have maintained significant interest in landing the former All-Pro receiver to pair him with Jayden Daniels. While the 49ers would prefer a trade to salvage some value, reports indicate that the Commanders could take a swing in Brandon Aiyuk if 49ers release the WR, allowing them to secure a high-upside weapon without sacrificing draft assets.

According to Ian Rapoport of NFL Media, the Commanders have “significant interest” in signing Aiyuk, however, it would only happen under the condition that he is released by the 49ers. Having said that, 49ers GM John Lynch said the team is not releasing Aiyuk.

Hence, the Commanders won’t engage in trade talks, but will be ready to offer a contract for a wideout that hasn’t played a game since October 2024. He suffered an ACL tear there, and after the injury, he’s had a tumultuous time with the 49ers.

Aiyuk has ties with Commanders QB Jayden Daniels

Jayden Daniels shined at LSU, but he played with Brandon Aiyuk at Arizona State. Hence, that could be a way of tempting Aiyuk of going to the Commanders. The team only has Terry McLaurin as a great option for Daniels, so Aiyuk, if back to top form, could definitely help the team.

Jayden Daniels himself is trying to get a bounceback year after not having the best of seasons in 2025. Daniels suffered a sophomore slump after winning Offensive Rookie of the Year, and dealt with quite a lot of injuries too.

The Commanders need an offensive star after the 2026 NFL Draft

The Commanders picked Sonny Styles in the first round of the 2026 NFL Draft. He is easily one of the best players in this class and he will do wonders for the team defensively. However, the offense needs help.

In the third round, the Commanders drafted Antonio Williams, a wide receiver from Clemson. However, they need firepower and Aiyuk could be that. Still, not having played in two years is not precisely the way to remain a top-tier weapon.

Matt Maiocco reported on X that Lynch even went as far as holding up his phone to the media, jokingly signaling to the rest of the league, “We’re available, give us a call.” This public invitation suggests that while the 49ers are still hoping to find a trade partner.

The situation has become increasingly complicated after Aiyuk missed the entire 2025 NFL season due to a severe knee injury, which reportedly led the team to void some of his future salary guarantees. Despite the friction, Lynch emphasized that the 49ers are “not planning to release him any time soon.“

What can the 49ers get in an Aiyuk trade?

If the 49ers can facilitate a trade before or during the summer, they could potentially recoup valuable draft capital to continue building around quarterback Brock Purdy. Moving Aiyuk would also clear significant hurdles in their future salary cap, which currently sits in a healthy position but faces massive upcoming extensions for other key defensive stars.

By holding out for a trade rather than a release, San Francisco maintains leverage over interested suitors like the Washington Commanders, who have been linked to Aiyuk for months. A successful deal would likely involve a combination of mid-round picks, providing the Niners with the “cheap labor” necessary to sustain their championship window while offloading a complex contract.

Should a trade fail to materialize, the team could still opt for a post-June 1 release to minimize the dead money hit on the 2026 books. However, for now, the 49ers seem content to play the long game, waiting to see if a desperate team finally bites on Lynch’s open invitation to pick up the phone and talk business.