Brandon Aiyuk’s situation remains unclear as the San Francisco 49ers begin training camp. The team has provided no updates, leaving the next move up to the wide receiver. Aiyuk is still listed on the reserve/left squad list, a status unchanged since late 2025. He missed all of last season amid a prolonged standoff with the team. To return potentially in 2026, he may need to apply to the NFL for reinstatement.
A further option for Aiyuk is to report to training camp or to communicate his intention to report to the 49ers. The strained relationship between Aiyuk and the team has persisted for about a year.
San Francisco 49ers wide receiver Brandon Aiyuk (11) walks off the field after an NFL game against the Seattle Seahawks at Lumen Field on Oct. 10, 2024, in Seattle, Washington. (Cooper Neill/Getty Images)
The issue seemed to peak last July when San Francisco voided the remaining guaranteed funds in Aiyuk’s contract. He did not participate in rehab efforts for his torn ACL, MCL, and meniscus in his right knee. The receiver has referenced the uncertainty surrounding his 49ers future on social media, further fueling speculation.
Former NFL wide receiver Roddy White commented on the matter, suggesting the 49ers mishandled Aiyuk’s recovery process. The 49ers should’ve exercised patience with Aiyuk and tried to get him back on the field to showcase his abilities,
White shared with Hard Rock Bet. When a player is upset and wants to leave, it’s challenging to get any compensation.
Atlanta Falcons wide receiver Roddy White (84) warms up before an NFL game against Baltimore Ravens at Georgia Dome on Sept. 3, 2015, in Atlanta, Georgia. (Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images)
Recently, the return of Deebo Samuel to the 49ers drew a cryptic response from Aiyuk on Instagram, where he mentioned, San Fran wanna see a real reunion?
His comments extend beyond the 49ers, as he criticized the NFL Players Association as well.
While Aiyuk was interested in joining the Commanders, that possibility has diminished after he criticized Washington quarterback Jayden Daniels. Daniels downplayed the situation, stating that he and Aiyuk handled everything privately.
They were teammates at Arizona State in 2019.
San Francisco 49ers wide receiver Brandon Aiyuk (11) celebrates after a touchdown against the Atlanta Falcons in the second quarter at Mercedes-Benz Stadium on Oct. 16, 2022. (Brett Davis / USA TODAY Sports)
Last month, general manager John Lynch emphasized the 49ers’ focus remains on players already present at camp. We as an organization focus on the players here. We wish him and his family well,
Lynch told reporters on July 25.
Ricky Pearsall seemed poised for a breakout role within the 49ers’ offense during camp, though swelling in the PCL of Pearsall’s right knee led to him being put on injured reserve on August 1.
Aiyuk participated in seven games in 2024 before his sidelining injury. Previously, he achieved his career-best season with 1,342 receiving yards and second-team All-Pro honors.
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