Report: The 49ers have had conversations with teams about trading Brandon Aiyuk and Deebo Samuel to move up in the draft

The 49ers continue to keep us entertained

The San Francisco 49ers, known for their dynamic strategies, have once again made headlines. This time, it’s thanks to a tweet from the Athletic’s Dianna Russini, a trusted source in the sports world, who shared the following:

The 49ers have had conversations with teams, including with one picking in the top 10, about trading either of their prized wide receivers Brandon Aiyuk or Deebo Samuel in an effort to move up in the first round, per sources.

It’s worth reflecting on the 49ers’ past decisions. Two drafts ago, they turned down a top 10 offer from the New York Jets for Deebo Samuel. In hindsight, that might have been the opportune moment to make a trade. Now, the perception of Samuel’s value, especially after the Super Bowl, is likely closer to an early third-round pick than a first.

Let’s delve into the potential draft targets that could pique the 49ers’ interest. It’s uncommon for a team to make a significant move for an offensive lineman. They are likely to miss out on the top three wideouts, unless there’s a sudden surge in demand for quarterbacks. Could the 49ers be secretly hoping for such a scenario?

If there’s a receiver early that would have Kyle Shanahan’s eye, it screams Washington’s Rome Odunze. He’s universally loved and would thrive in the 49ers offense. To move into that range, a deal would be impossible without parting ways with Samuel or Aiyuk.

Regardless of what happens, my stance remains unchanged: The 49ers will not improve by moving Aiuyk.

If there’s a scenario that involves flipping Deebo for Odunze, assuming it doesn’t involve a first-round pick, you’re taking it every day of the week. The 49ers offload Deebo’s contract, get a (likely) upgrade, and can use that money to extend Aiyuk.

Samuel is a trade chip that makes sense to dangle in front of receiver-needy teams. Will somebody bite? We’ll find out soon enough.

Lynch hasn’t been shy about admitting that the team has conversations openly. However, the specifics of the report tell us the 49ers are willing to move one of their stars for a rookie contract. That’s the biggest takeaway.

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