Brandon Aiyuk’s Future in Jeopardy with San Francisco 49ers

San Francisco, CA — Wide receiver Brandon Aiyuk and the San Francisco 49ers are reportedly at the brink of a surprising separation. Just fifteen months ago, Aiyuk ended a contentious contract negotiation with the team, but now, multiple sources suggest he has likely played his last game for the franchise.

Aiyuk, who suffered a severe knee injury in October 2024, has not been activated after being placed on the physically unable to perform list (PUP) in July 2025. Sources familiar with the situation believe there is little hope for reconciliation, as Aiyuk has missed numerous team meetings and activities.

The 49ers responded to Aiyuk’s absence by voiding the guaranteed money in his contract for the 2026 season, which amounts to over $27 million. According to information from league insiders, Aiyuk does not plan to challenge this decision through the NFL Players Association.

His struggles to maintain communication have frustrated the organization, with some within the team attempting to reach out, but to no avail. Aiyuk’s representative, Ryan Williams, declined to comment, and Aiyuk himself did not respond to inquiries.

In 2023, Aiyuk had a breakout season, being named a second-team All-Pro after accumulating 1,342 receiving yards. However, the current turmoil is a stark contrast to the optimism surrounding him. He had a slow start to the 2024 season prior to the knee injury, catching only 13 passes for 167 yards before going down in October.

Aiyuk’s presence at the training facility has become rare, as he reportedly works out during morning hours and leaves before other players arrive. Team members have expressed concern about Aiyuk’s distancing from the squad.

After the team’s disappointing performance this season, missing the playoffs for the first time since 2020, the chances of Aiyuk returning seem slim. With potential trade talks about him resurfacing, the Seattle Seahawks are speculated as a possible destination should he be released.

As the 2025 season progresses, the 49ers hope to address their personnel issues, but without Aiyuk, their offensive core will indeed suffer a significant blow moving forward.