Dolphins Eyeing 49ers Star to Boost Malik Willis' Offense

Acquiring Brandon Aiyuk could provide a much-needed boost to Miami's receiving corps.

Apr. 5, 2026 at 12:38am

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The Miami Dolphins are reportedly interested in trading for San Francisco 49ers wide receiver Brandon Aiyuk to help bolster their passing attack and support young quarterback Malik Willis. Aiyuk, who had a breakout season in 2022, would provide Willis with a talented and experienced No. 1 target as the Dolphins look to build around their new signal-caller.

Why it matters

The Dolphins' current receiving corps is thin, featuring mostly unproven players, which could hinder Willis' development as a first-time starter. Acquiring a player of Aiyuk's caliber would give the offense a significant boost and help set Willis up for success in his debut season.

The details

Aiyuk, 24, is coming off a career year in 2022 where he caught 78 passes for 1,015 yards and 8 touchdowns. His familiarity with Dolphins offensive coordinator Bobby Slowik, who previously worked with Aiyuk in San Francisco, could also ease the transition. However, Aiyuk has also been known to have some off-field issues, which the Dolphins would need to carefully evaluate before making a trade.

  • The Dolphins are reportedly interested in Aiyuk ahead of the 2023 NFL Draft, which takes place in late April.

The players

Malik Willis

The Dolphins' young quarterback who is expected to take over as the team's starter in 2023.

Brandon Aiyuk

A 24-year-old wide receiver for the San Francisco 49ers who is coming off a breakout 2022 season.

Bobby Slowik

The Dolphins' new offensive coordinator, who previously worked with Aiyuk in San Francisco.

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What they’re saying

“The Dolphins can't roll out a receiver room of backups and rookies and expect Malik Willis to grow as a first-time full-time starter. He needs help in the passing game.”

— Moe Moton, Bleacher Report Writer

What’s next

The Dolphins will need to evaluate the potential trade cost and Aiyuk's off-field concerns before deciding whether to pursue a deal for the 49ers wide receiver.

The takeaway

Acquiring a talented and experienced wide receiver like Brandon Aiyuk would be a significant boost for the Dolphins' offense and Malik Willis' development as the team's new starting quarterback.