(Photo by Christian Petersen/Getty Images)
There may have only been one person more happy about Minnesota wide receiver Justin Jefferson’s staggering four-year, $140 million contract extension than Jefferson himself.
That was star San Francisco receiver Brandon Aiyuk.
The wideout made significant noise recently about wanting a new contract after hauling in 75 receptions last year for his Super Bowl-bound 49ers.
Now his team knows exactly where he stands.
Ian Rapoport reported on Tuesday that Aiyuk decided to skip mandatory minicamp as he attempts to force the team into giving him a new contract.
#49ers WR Brandon Aiyuk has not reported to mandatory minicamp, as he seeks a new contract. He is subject to fines. The second holdout of the day, along with #Cowboys WR CeeDee Lamb.
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) June 4, 2024
The implications of Jefferson’s record-breaking deal on Aiyuk’s situation are tough to figure.
While Jefferson and other receivers are clear number ones who will receive a lion’s share of targets, Aiyuk plays for a loaded squad with lots of options.
From tight end George Kittle to running back Christian McCaffrey – who incidentally signed an enormous extension with the team on Tuesday – quarterback Brock Purdy has no shortage of talented players to throw passes to.
Aiyuk is a fine player, of that there is no question, and he will be one of the more talented receivers on the field this fall.
But to skip mandatory OTAs in search of a new contract may be a short-sighted move while playing for a team that drafted receiver Ricky Pearsall with the 31st overall pick of the 2024 NFL draft.
Aiyuk’s holdout could be a short one, or he may stretch it toward preseason to gain leverage for a new deal from a team that is already loaded with talent.
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