San Francisco 49ers wide receiver Brandon Aiyuk is unlikely to play for the team again, just 15 months after signing a four-year, $120-million extension. The 49ers voided his 2026 guaranteed money after he reportedly failed to attend meetings and participate in team activities, frustrating the organization due to his poor communication. Although some within the team hope to repair the relationship, reconciliation appears unlikely.
Aiyuk works out privately and leaves the facility before teammates arrive, and even teammates’ attempts to mend tensions haven’t helped. Voiding the guarantees gives the 49ers a path to recover significant money if he’s released. Aiyuk previously held out during the 2023 training camp, leading the team to explore trades with the Patriots and Steelers before he ultimately signed with San Francisco.
Currently on the physically unable to perform list after suffering severe knee injuries (ACL, MCL, and meniscus) in October 2024, Aiyuk has yet to return to the active roster. Drafted in the first round in 2020, he spent his entire six-year career with the 49ers and earned second-team All-Pro honors in 2023 with 1,342 receiving yards.
This season, running back Christian McCaffrey leads the team in receiving yards, while Kendrick Bourne is the top-producing wide receiver. The 49ers hold a 7-4 record heading into Week 12.