Plenty of speculation has surrounded the San Francisco 49ers' wide receiver duo of Brandon Aiyuk and Deebo Samuel in recent weeks, and as the NFL draft approaches, their future with the team remains uncertain. The 49ers have reportedly discussed the possibility of trading up in the first round, potentially as high as the top 10, and such a move could involve either Aiyuk or Samuel, according to a report from The Athletic's Dianna Russini.

Despite assurances from general manager John Lynch that Aiyuk is expected to stay with the team, trade rumors continue to swirl. Aiyuk has openly expressed his frustration with the lack of a long-term contract extension, and Lynch has drawn comparisons between Aiyuk's situation and Samuel's not too long ago. While Lynch has publicly shown confidence in retaining Aiyuk through the draft, the market interest could still change the outcome.

The San Francisco Chronicle's Michael Silver confirms that teams have expressed interest in Samuel as well as Aiyuk. Samuel is under contract for two more years, while Aiyuk is set to play on his fifth-year option in 2024 at a salary of $14.12 million. The 49ers face the challenge of balancing the financial implications of extending Aiyuk with their long-term plans, particularly as they also consider extending quarterback Brock Purdy.

Currently holding the 31st pick in the draft, the 49ers could benefit from a notable move up the board. However, such a move would come at a significant cost, and including Aiyuk or Samuel in any trade would create a void in the team's offense. It remains to be seen how many teams in the early or middle part of the draft order would be interested in acquiring an expensive veteran wide receiver.

One team that has shown interest in Aiyuk is the Pittsburgh Steelers, who are reportedly in the market for a receiver addition. Aiyuk had a breakout season in 2023, recording a stat line of 75 receptions, 1,342 yards, and 7 touchdowns. If he remains with the 49ers, Aiyuk is expected to remain a crucial part of their offense.

As the draft draws near, the burning question of whether Aiyuk or Samuel will remain with the 49ers continues to captivate fans and analysts alike. With the possibility of a trade-up looming and interest from other teams, the future of San Francisco's wide receiver corps remains uncertain. The coming hours will provide more clarity on this intriguing situation.