San Francisco 49ers general manager John Lynch has previously indicated that Brandon Aiyuk’s tenure with the team has effectively ended. George Kittle, a key player for the 49ers, seems content with this development.
The discord between Aiyuk and the 49ers has persisted for nearly a year. The situation arose after the team nullified the remaining guaranteed money on Aiyuk’s extension. This decision followed Aiyuk’s absence from rehabilitation sessions for severe knee injuries sustained during the 2024 season, including a torn ACL, MCL, and meniscus. Aiyuk has yet to make a return from these injuries.
The 49ers have been actively searching for a trade partner for Aiyuk but have yet to finalize a deal. Meanwhile, George Kittle has wished Aiyuk “luck” wherever he lands next.
“I used to make it a habit of mine to go out early in the morning before meetings to watch him train because he’d always be out there early, and I watched him run over 22 miles an hour and watched him stop on a dime. He’s still got it, but that was eight months ago, so I don’t really know. You guys have fun with that, I guess,” Kittle remarked on Barstool Sports’ podcast.
Rumors suggest a potential fit between Aiyuk and the Washington Commanders. Aiyuk recently expressed excitement for the Commanders in an Instagram Story, repeatedly chanting, “Go Commanders!”
Aiyuk has begun voicing his dissatisfaction with the 49ers. He described the decision to extend his contract as “dumb” and “stupid” in various videos. He also accused the team of fearing his potential success with another franchise.
Back in December, the 49ers added Aiyuk to the reserve/left team list due to his absence from team activities.
Before his 2024 injury, Aiyuk recorded 24 catches for 374 yards in that season. His standout 2023 season included 1,342 receiving yards on 75 receptions, adding seven touchdowns as the 49ers made a Super Bowl appearance.
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