The Indianapolis Colts should not pursue a trade for San Francisco 49ers wide receiver Brandon Aiyuk, who has recently requested one.
Brandon Aiyuk, the San Francisco 49ers’ wide receiver, has demanded a trade. At the end of the day, it is unknown whether he will remain in San Francisco or be assigned to another team. Should the Indianapolis Colts make a trade for Aiyuk?
Vinnie Iyer of Sporting News believes Indianapolis is one of the best landing spots:
“The Colts have Michael Pittman Jr. extended well for Anthony Richardson, but there are questions behind him at wide receiver in youngsters Alec Pierce, Josh Downs and AD Mitchell.”
Aiyuk would be an excellent acquisition for the Colts. The 2020 first-round selection is one of the NFL’s greatest blocking wide receivers. He was named second-team All-Pro last season after collecting 75 catches for 1,342 yards and seven touchdowns. However, the Colts would be better off not pursuing a trade for Aiyuk.
The Indianapolis Colts Should Not Trade for Brandon Aiyuk
Let Their Receiving Corps Jell
Michael Pittman Jr., Josh Downs, Alec Pierce, and rookie Adonai Mitchell lead Indianapolis’ wide receiver corps. Ashton Dulin and Anthony Gould, a 2024 fifth-round pick, are also in the mix.
Pittman had a successful 2023 season. The USC product caught 109 receptions and gained 1,152 yards (both career highs). Downs had a strong debut year, totaling 68 receptions and 771 yards.
Pierce didn’t have the best statistics (32 catches for 514 yards). However, with quarterback Anthony Richardson returning, he could have a much stronger season in 2024. Richardson, of course, missed the majority of last season due to injuries. He has a cannon for an arm, which is required for a deep-threat receiver like Pierce to excel.
Mitchell, a second-round choice in this year’s draft, with enormous potential. He could become the team’s top receiver in the near future.
In exchange for Aiyuk, the Colts could have to give up a first-round pick. He’s also searching for a large paycheck. The Colts should keep their young, talented receiving corps together and let them to develop together. It would be less expensive, and the device has the ability to generate electricity. If Downs improves in Year 2 and Mitchell emerges as an impact player, the sky is the limit.
Too Expensive
Money is the motivation behind Brandon Aiyuk’s trade request. He has yet to receive a contract extension from the 49ers this summer. He will earn $14.1 million in 2024, but he is looking for a contract extension worth at least $30 million a year.
The Colts have about $25 million in cap space. Having said that, they can afford to make a move for Ayuk. However, they have already given Pittman a three-year, $70 million contract deal this summer. Having two receivers with enormous contracts is not ideal.
Perhaps hiring a seasoned defensive back like Justin Simmons makes more sense. The Colts’ main vulnerability entering the 2024 season is their secondary.
It’s unlikely that the 49ers will deal Aiyuk this summer. He’s clearly one of their most significant players, having helped the team reach the Super Bowl last season. But if San Francisco does make him available, the Colts should stay away. Adding a wide receiver isn’t their primary need.
