Why Did The San Francisco 49ers Finally Make The Smart Decision To Keep Brandon Aiyuk?
The NFL offseason is shifting toward the 2026 NFL Draft. Teams stayed busy last week, making a wave of free-agency signings and trades. The San Francisco 49ers joined the action and even signed a future Hall of Fame wide receiver to a deal.
Still, one situation remains murky. The 49ers were expected to release troubled wide receiver Brandon Aiyuk at the start of the new league year last Wednesday. That move never happened.
MORE: Kansas City Chiefs eyeing Super Bowl quarterback as Patrick Mahomes insurance Instead, Aiyuk remains on the roster—though currently on the Reserve/Left Squad list. Oct 20, 2024; Santa Clara, California, USA; San Francisco 49ers wide receiver Brandon Aiyuk (11) walks on the field before the start of the game against the Kansas City Chiefs at Levi’s Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Cary Edmondson-Imagn Images With the 49ers seemingly signing his replacement and the expected move long overdue, why hasn’t the team released Aiyuk?
This situation has been building for a long time. As far back as 2024, Aiyuk wanted out of San Francisco. He requested a trade, the 49ers nearly sent him elsewhere, and he ultimately chose to stay after signing a last-second contract extension.
Tensions resurfaced last season as Aiyuk worked his way back from the ACL injury he suffered in 2024. He eventually left the team, all but signaling the end of his time in San Francisco. MORE: Rams explored trading $18M star WR amid A.