"It was just one year ago that the Patriots were heavily pursuing some of the top free agents, hoping to rebuild their team into a powerhouse competitor to regain the AFC East and help rookie quarterback Drake Maye start his NFL career on the right foot. That didn't work too well, though, particularly with their interest in wide receiver Brandon Aiyuk, who demanded a trade from the 49ers."
"Since suffering an ACL injury midseason last year, the saga between Aiyuk and the 49ers has been an unraveling drama that could have been totally avoided. Whatever the reason is for the relationship deteriorating is unclear, and head coach Kyle Shanahan didn't have a whole lot to say after they placed Aiyuk on the reserve/left list, but one thing is clear: the Patriots lucked out on giving up on their pursuit of Aiyuk and eventually signing Stefon Diggs this offseason."
The Patriots aggressively pursued top free agents last year to rebuild around rookie quarterback Drake Maye, including a push for wide receiver Brandon Aiyuk. Aiyuk demanded a trade from the 49ers and reportedly refused a move to New England, preferring the Steelers, which led the Patriots to withdraw their offer. Fans lamented the missed opportunity given offensive needs. Aiyuk suffered an ACL injury midseason, and his relationship with the 49ers deteriorated, culminating in placement on the reserve/left list with limited comment from coach Kyle Shanahan. New England ultimately signed Stefon Diggs instead.
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