49ers’ Aiyuk Faces Critical Trade Deadline with $22.85 Million Bonus Looming

PALM BEACH, Fla. — The San Francisco 49ers are not expected to trade wide receiver Brandon Aiyuk before a crucial deadline on April 1, when he is due a $22.85 million roster bonus.

Sources told ESPN’s Adam Schefter that unless a last-minute deal emerges, Aiyuk will likely remain with the team for the upcoming 2025 season. The 49ers’ decision is underscored by the high stakes of Aiyuk’s contract and his recent recovery from a significant knee injury.

Aiyuk, who signed a four-year, $120 million extension with the 49ers last year, faced a setback when he tore the ACL and MCL in his right knee last October. He ended the previous season with 25 receptions for 374 yards and no touchdowns, a stark contrast to his 2023 performance, where he notched 75 catches for 1,342 yards and seven touchdowns.

“Once the 49ers pay that bonus, any trade talks for Aiyuk would be off, and he would be expected to spend the 2025 season in San Francisco,” Schefter wrote on social media.

The looming deadline has prompted speculation about Aiyuk’s future with the team. General manager John Lynch addressed the situation on Monday, stating that while no trade is expected, Aiyuk’s recovery is proceeding well.

“Aiyuk got good reviews from Dr. Neal ElAttrache in Los Angeles,” Lynch said. “We’re pleased with his progress and expect him to be a part of us moving forward.”

Despite interest from multiple teams, Lynch pointed out that the combination of Aiyuk’s substantial salary and injury concerns have complicated any potential trade discussions.

“We made that decision when we signed him,” Lynch said, emphasizing the organization’s commitment to Aiyuk. “He’s working hard to progress back to full strength, and I fully expect him to be a part of us in the future.”

As April 1 approaches, the 49ers’ window for a trade is narrowing, with teams likely weighing the risks associated with Aiyuk’s health and contract. Currently, he has accumulated 294 receptions for 4,305 yards and 25 touchdowns in his five-year career after being selected No. 25 overall in the 2020 NFL Draft.

The team will need to navigate these complex dynamics as they prepare for the 2025 season.