Brandon Aiyuk Placed on Reserve, Signaling End of 49ers Tenure
The San Francisco 49ers have officially placed Brandon Aiyuk on the reserve/left squad list, effectively concluding his 2025 season. This decision marks a significant turning point in Aiyuk’s tenure with the team. With current performances and injuries impacting the squad, the future with Aiyuk now appears bleak.
Key Developments Surrounding Brandon Aiyuk
Just a month prior, 49ers head coach Kyle Shanahan noted that Aiyuk was consistent in attending early-morning rehabilitation sessions. However, his recent absence from practice has led to concerns regarding his commitment. The 49ers had initially hoped Aiyuk could return to the lineup late in the season after recovering from an ACL tear. Unfortunately, time is running short, with three weeks left in the regular season.
Contractual Issues
In July, the 49ers voided the guaranteed money in Aiyuk’s contract for 2026. Reports indicate that he decided not to contest this decision through a formal grievance with the NFL Players Association. Coach Shanahan remarked on the unusual circumstances, saying, “I’ve never been in a situation where a contract’s been voided.” This situation adds another layer of complexity to Aiyuk’s future with the team.
Aiyuk’s Performance History
- Top pass catcher during the 2023 Super Bowl run
- Achieved a career-high of 1,342 receiving yards
- Signed a four-year, $120 million contract extension in August 2024
Aiyuk’s early 2024 season faced challenges as he suffered a multi-ligament knee injury in Week 7 against the Kansas City Chiefs, which sidelined him for the remainder of the year. His absence has been felt particularly as the team has dealt with injuries to other wide receivers such as Ricky Pearsall, Jacob Cowing, and Jordan Watkins.
Looking Ahead for the 49ers
With Aiyuk likely departing in the offseason and both Jauan Jennings and Kendrick Bourne approaching free agency, the 49ers are considering new options for their receiving corps. Pearsall, who had a strong start this season despite missing six games due to injury, is a potential cornerstone for the team’s future. He has accumulated only 20 receiving yards in the last three games but remains a focal point for the coaching staff.
In the wake of Aiyuk’s placement on the reserve list and injuries to other key players, the team’s depth in the receiving position is under scrutiny. The 49ers will need to make strategic decisions as they prepare for the upcoming seasons.
