Brandon Aiyuk to the Saints? Exploring the Fit and Cap Implications

For many reasons, New Orleans trading for 49ers star wide receiver would make plenty of sense. However, there are future road blocks.

November 27, 2022; Santa Clara, California, USA; San Francisco 49ers wide receiver Brandon Aiyuk (11) during the second quarter against the New Orleans Saints at Levi's Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kyle Terada-USA TODAY Sports / Kyle Terada-USA TODAY Sports

The NFL trade rumor mill is buzzing with the news that San Francisco 49ers wide receiver Brandon Aiyuk is requesting a trade after a frustrating contract negotiation. Aiyuk's cryptic social media post in June while speaking to the Commanders' rookie quarterback Jayden Daniels has sparked speculation about where the Niners receiver will land, with the New Orleans Saints as a probable destination.

Aiyuk's Current Situation With The Niners

Mike Garafolo reported Aiyuk's trade request, which stemmed from the 49ers' reluctance to negotiate a new contract in May 2024. Despite his impressive performance, including an All-Pro second-team selection in 2023 with 1,364 receiving yards and seven touchdowns, the 49ers have yet to budge. The stalemate has led Aiyuk to seek opportunities elsewhere.

Albert Breer wrote in his June column, "But for now, I'd say a Deebo Samuel trade would be more likely than an Aiyuk trade."

Could New Orleans engage in a trade for Aiyuk? Let's explore why and how.

Feb 5, 2024; Las Vegas, NV, USA; San Francisco 49ers wide receiver Brandon Aiyuk (11) talks to the media during Super Bowl LVIII Opening Night at Allegiant Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Lucas Peltier-USA TODAY Sports / Lucas Peltier-USA TODAY Sports

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Why the Saints Could Be Interested

The New Orleans Saints need another dynamic wide receiver to bolster their offense alongside Chis Olave and Rashid Shaheed. Aiyuk's proven ability to perform, demonstrated by his consistent production over the past seasons, makes him an attractive target.  

His 2023 season stats include 78 receptions for 1,015 yards and eight touchdowns, showcasing his potential to be a game-changer for the Saints​. Late in the season, A.T. Perry emerged as a target for Derek Carr. The Wake Forest product caught 12 receptions for 246 yards and four touchdowns for a 20.5-yard per catch average on 18 targets. Aiyuk's addition could significantly elevate the Saints' offensive game.

Klint Kubiak served as the 49ers' passing game coordinator last season. Thus, he is familiar with Aiyuk and contributed to the receiver's second-team All-Pro season.

Aiyuk could integrate into the Saints offense for five reasons:

1. Versatility and Playmaking Ability: Aiyuk is known for his versatility and ability to make big plays. His ability to stretch the field would add a dynamic element to the Saints' passing game.
2. Run-After-Catch Skills: Aiyuk's proficiency in gaining yards after the catch would be a significant asset. 
3. Complementary Piece: Aiyuk would complement the Saints' existing receiving corps, potentially opening up opportunities for other receivers and tight ends.  
4. Physicality and Blocking: Kubiak emphasized during the minicamp that he likes his receivers to be physical and block. Aiyuk's willingness to engage in blocking and physical style fits well with this philosophy, contributing to the overall effectiveness of the run game and play-action passes.
5. Familiarity with Similar Systems: Playing under Kubiak with the 49ers will have similarities with the Saints' current offensive scheme.

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November 27, 2022; Santa Clara, California, USA; San Francisco 49ers wide receiver Brandon Aiyuk (11) runs the football against New Orleans Saints cornerback Alontae Taylor (27) during the second quarter at Levi's Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kyle Terada-USA TODAY Sports / Kyle Terada-USA TODAY Sports

Financial and Strategic Implications

According to OvertheCap.com, New Orleans has $12,041,483 in cap space ahead of training camp. Reports say wideout Bub Means was placed on the non-football injury list when the rookies reported to camp. Down a receiver, are the Saints interested in shopping for another one, especially at the price tag associated with Aiyuk?

Analysts believe Aiyuk would command a significant contract extension in an estimated $30 million per year range. With other more pressing contracts looming, i.e., Alvin Kamara, it would challenging for general manager Mickey Loomis to accommodate another large contract extension. Option years are coming for several players — could New Orleans handle the financial burden? However, it's not out of the question for the New Orleans front office to make surprising deals.  

Could The Saints Find A Reasonable Trade Scenario For Aiyuk?

The Saints could offer multiple draft picks or a combination of players to meet the 49ers' needs. Still, who are those players the team would be willing to sacrifice for Aiyuk? Given the Saints' salary cap situation, they must ensure they can absorb Aiyuk's contract demands while balancing their roster.

While nothing is certain, the potential trade of Brandon Aiyuk to the New Orleans Saints is an alluring possibility. The move could give the Saints the offensive boost they need while allowing the 49ers to manage their finances and focus on other key areas. As the situation develops, it will be intriguing to see how both teams navigate these potential trade waters, potentially leading to a win-win situation.

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You can follow Kyle T. Mosley on X.com: @KTMOZE and @SAINTSNEWS; Publisher of HBCU Legends on SI.