The Brandon Aiyuk rumors are heating up again, but for the Cleveland Browns, this is one call they need to let go to voicemail. After the 49ers’ playoff exit, San Francisco GM John Lynch didn’t sugarcoat things when asked about Aiyuk’s future: “It’s safe to say he's played his last snap with the Niners.”
That comment alone is enough to get the trade machine spinning. Aiyuk, when healthy and locked in, is a dynamic talent.
But for Cleveland, the risks far outweigh the potential reward. Here’s why GM Andrew Berry should steer clear of this situation.
1. The "No Thanks" Factor
This isn’t the first time Cleveland has kicked the tires on Aiyuk. Back in 2024, Berry reportedly had a deal on the table involving Amari Cooper and draft picks.
But the deal fell apart when Aiyuk declined to sign an extension with the Browns. That’s not just a red flag - that’s a full stop sign.
It’s a familiar tune in Cleveland. Deshaun Watson initially turned down the Browns before ownership came in with a historic contract to change his mind.
That kind of persuasion might work for a franchise quarterback, but wide receiver is a different conversation. If a player doesn’t want to be in Cleveland, Berry shouldn’t have to roll out the red carpet to convince him.
Local voices are already drawing comparisons to past missteps. Nick Wilson from 92.3 The FAN put it bluntly: “Doesn’t this feel like OBJ to you?
A guy that was prolific at one point, has ceased being prolific and is just pretty OK.” That’s the kind of déjà vu the Browns can’t afford.
2. Contract Luggage and Locker Room Fit
Aiyuk’s 2025 season was more mystery than production. He reportedly “ghosted” the Niners during injury rehab, and the team responded by voiding $27 million in guarantees. That’s not a minor move - it’s a clear sign that the relationship had gone completely off the rails.
Bringing that kind of energy into a Browns locker room that’s trying to recalibrate its offensive identity is a risky proposition. Cleveland doesn’t need another off-field storyline or a player who might not be fully committed to the cause. They need reliability, accountability, and a clean slate - not a potential distraction.
3. The Health and Production Gamble
Let’s talk football. Aiyuk hasn’t played a meaningful snap since tearing his ACL and MCL in late 2024. He’ll be 28 by the time the 2026 season kicks off, and no one really knows what version of him will show up.
That’s not a small gamble - that’s betting your remaining cap space on a receiver who hasn’t been on the field in over a year. For a team that still needs to find its offensive rhythm, that’s a swing that could miss badly.
Time to Build, Not Patch
The Browns have spent too much time chasing short-term fixes at wide receiver. It’s time to flip the script.
Instead of trading for disgruntled veterans like Aiyuk or A.J. Brown, Cleveland needs to hit on a starting-caliber wideout in the draft - someone young, hungry, and on a rookie deal.
It’s not just about avoiding risk - it’s about building something sustainable. The Browns don’t need to overextend for a player with question marks. They need to find the right fit, not just the biggest name.
So when the phone rings about Brandon Aiyuk, Andrew Berry should do what’s best for the long-term vision of the franchise: hang up.