49ers GM Lynch Confirms Brandon Aiyuk’s Last Snap with Team
The San Francisco 49ers are preparing to officially part ways with wide receiver Brandon Aiyuk. General manager John Lynch confirmed during an end-of-season news conference that Aiyuk has likely played his final snap with the team. This decision follows a series of events that complicate Aiyuk’s tenure in San Francisco.
Brandon Aiyuk’s Standoff with the 49ers
Following a four-year, $120 million contract extension signed on August 29, 2024, expectations were high for both Aiyuk and the 49ers. However, those hopes faded after Aiyuk’s performance and personal issues arose shortly after the deal. His struggles were highlighted during the 2024 season, where he averaged just 58.5 receiving yards per game before suffering a severe knee injury on October 20.
Injury and Contract Voiding
The injury hindered any attempts to trade Aiyuk last offseason. Compounding his issues, Aiyuk began to miss necessary rehabilitation sessions, leading to contract guarantees being voided in July 2025. Coach Kyle Shanahan noted that in his extensive coaching career, he had never seen a player experience contract voiding of this nature.
Aiyuk’s Communication Breakdown
Communication broke down significantly between Aiyuk and the team, particularly after he ceased attending practices and responding to outreach from the coaching staff. Shanahan expressed confusion over the situation, emphasizing that understanding Aiyuk’s withdrawal from the team was challenging.
Future of Aiyuk and the 49ers
The 49ers placed Aiyuk on the reserve/left team list on December 13, 2025, ensuring he would not participate in the following season. As the team weighs its options for moving forward, the financial implications of releasing Aiyuk pose potential complications. Releasing him could result in approximately $30 million in dead money, though a post-June 1 designation might alleviate some of these financial burdens.
- Contract Extension: Four years, $120 million with $76 million guaranteed.
- 2024 Stats: 58.5 receiving yards per game, no touchdowns, season ended with serious injury.
- Communication Issues: Stopped attending practices and cut off communication with team coaches.
- Future Financial Implications: $30 million in dead money if released, potential for a post-June 1 split.
The decision to move on from Aiyuk marks a significant shift for the 49ers as they look to enhance their salary cap flexibility. With other key players, including Jauan Jennings set to hit free agency, the next steps will be crucial for the team’s overall strategy moving forward.
