San Francisco 49ers wide receiver Brandon Aiyuk returned to the team offices on Friday and began the process of filing for reinstatement to the NFL. Aiyuk, who recently hired agent Drew Rosenhaus, told reporters he is healthy and ready to play. "I'm feeling great, feeling healthy, been a long recovery process, long rehab process but I'm back to 100% and looking to get reinstated to the National Football League," Aiyuk said.
Coach Shanahan Unconcerned
Head coach Kyle Shanahan downplayed the meeting, saying he "couldn't care less" about the outcome and had moved on from the Aiyuk situation.
Financial and Contractual Obstacles
According to Tom Pelissero of The Ringer, Aiyuk owes the 49ers approximately $13 million in bonus forfeiture. The team signed Aiyuk to a four-year, $120 million extension in August 2024, then voided about $27 million in salary guarantees in July 2025 after he failed to meet contract requirements. Aiyuk was subsequently placed on the reserve/left squad list. The NFL Management Council and the NFL Players Association are working on a resolution, though it may take time. The 49ers still hold Aiyuk's rights; once reinstated, they would need to trade or release him. San Francisco has previously been unable to trade him, making a release a possibility after the financial issue is settled.
Career Background and Recent Turmoil
In 2023, Aiyuk emerged as one of the NFL's top receivers, catching 75 passes for 1,342 yards and seven touchdowns as the 49ers reached Super Bowl LVIII. He ranked third in yards per route run (3.1) and led the league with 81.3% of receptions resulting in a first down or touchdown. He joined Jerry Rice as the only players in franchise history with seven 100-yard receiving games in a season. After a contract holdout, a torn ACL in Week 7 of the 2024 season, and a series of public disputes — including social media criticism of the organization and a misdemeanor speeding warrant — Aiyuk missed the entire 2025 season. He now appears focused on resolving his status and returning to the field.
