Jerod Mayo Addresses Brandon Aiyuk's Rumored Patriots Snub amid NFL Trade Buzz

After the New England Patriots failed to complete a trade for San Francisco 49ers wide receiver Brandon Aiyuk because he reportedly turned down a contract extension offer, head coach Jerod Mayo wasn't sweating the decision.

Mayo addressed how things played out with Aiyuk on Sunday, saying he knows the Patriots have more work to do before they can attract a player of his caliber.

"When we start to win games, guys will want to come here," Mayo said, per Alex Barth of 98.5 The Sports Hub. "When we establish the culture, the roster, guys will be excited."

ESPN's Adam Schefter reported last Tuesday that the Patriots removed themselves from trade discussions with the 49ers regarding Aiyuk. While New England has a crop of unproven wide receivers and could use an injection of star power, the team is "excited" about its current group and wants to focus on developing its young players.

The Athletic's Dianna Russini reported during an episode of the Scoop City podcast that Aiyuk turned down a contract offer from the Patriots that would have paid him around $32 million annually. The 2023 second-team All-Pro reportedly has concerns over New England's quarterback situation and had a preference to play for a team that would be projected to contend for a playoff spot in 2024 and beyond.

The Patriots are set for a rebuilding year under Mayo, who is in his first year at the helm after replacing longtime head coach Bill Belichick. New England drafted quarterback Drake Maye with the No. 3 pick, but he's set to begin his rookie year by playing behind veteran signal-caller Jacoby Brissett.

It could take quite a while before the Patriots are able to regain their status as an attractive destination for star players. The AFC is stacked with talent, so building New England back into a contender will be a tall task for Mayo and company over the next few years.