Not going to New England The Patriots are no longer exploring a trade for Aiyuk, Adam Schefter of ESPN reports. Impact Matt Maiocco of NBC Sports Bay Area reports that the Patriots met the 49ers' trade demands and had a large contract offer on the table, but it didn't work out because Aiyuk wasn't willing to sign with New England. The Steelers and Browns are now thought to be the main teams pursuing the 26-year-old wideout, with earlier reports suggesting Cleveland might offer WR Amari Cooper as part of a trade. Pittsburgh wouldn't be able to offer a comparable wide receiver -- assuming George Pickens is off the table -- but might be able to make up the difference with additional draft capital and/or players at other positions. It's also still possible Aiyuk and the 49ers come to an agreement, although there's certainly some awkwardness involved after months of tense negotiations and now open trade talks.
AUGUST 7 • ROTOWIRE