The San Francisco 49ers would not have had the success they had in the 2023-2024 season without the contributions of Wide Receiver Brandon Aiyuk. Aiyuk is an irreplaceable piece for the 49ers as he is a selfless blocker in the run-game, while still putting up WR1 numbers through the air. If the 49ers wish to reach the Super Bowl once again this upcoming season they will need such contributions again from the star wideout, but it will not come without a pay raise. Aiyuk is entering the season on his 5th-year option, and has already stated that he is seeking a long-term contract extension in San Francisco or elsewhere.

Jan 28, 2024; Santa Clara, California, USA; San Francisco 49ers wide receiver Brandon Aiyuk (11) makes a catch for a touchdown against the Detroit Lions during the second half of the NFC Championship football game at Levi’s Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kelley L Cox-USA TODAY Sports

Brandon Aiyuk’s Remarkable Stat Line

Aiyuk tallied 75 receptions for 1,342 yards to go along with 7 touchdown receptions during the regular season. Aiyuk’s 1,342 receiving yards were the seventh most in the league, but what is remarkable is that he only had the 36th most targets during that span.  What this means is that he can put up similar numbers to the best receivers in the league with far less target volume. This is invaluable to a 49ers offense who has so many weapons at their disposal, making it all the more important to take advantage of the opportunities when given.

Aiyuk The Blocker

Brandon Aiyuk is well respected in the 49ers locker room for not only his ability to catch everything thrown his way, but also for his selflessness in the run game. Aiyuk is one of only a few receivers in the league who has a highlight reel of blocking plays over the course of the season. He is a major reason that Christian McCaffrey had such success on the ground this past season.  Defensive backs look completely disinterested in trying to help in run-defense when Aiyuk is in front of them, and the 49ers will need this going forward.

Aiyuk’s Contract Dilemma

Aiyuk enters the season on his 5th-year option, but one could very well expect a holdout if the two sides cannot reach an agreement this offseason. According to Spotrac, Aiyuk should expect a contract in the range of 4 years for $96 million dollars. The $30 million cap raise could not have come at a better time for the 49ers brass in that regard. The 49ers faithful do not wish to see another holdout as they have seen in years past in Bosa and Samuel, as many believe that it affected their play that season. It is very rare for the 49ers to have 2 players at the same position garnering top-level market value as would be the case with Aiyuk and Deebo Samuel, but it is hard to see the 49ers going in any other direction when they are in win-now mode

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