San Francisco 49ers wide receiver Brandon Aiyuk has filed paperwork to be reinstated and is expected to report to the team's facility on Friday, according to reports. Agent Drew Rosenhaus confirmed Aiyuk is healthy and ready to return.
The move comes after a prolonged standoff. General manager John Lynch stated 10 months ago that Aiyuk had likely played his last snap for the franchise. The 49ers could now trade or release him, though ESPN reports a release is the most likely outcome.
The saga began when Aiyuk tore his ACL in October 2024. He was placed on the physically unable to perform list before the 2025 season, and 13 months post-injury the 49ers voided $27 million in 2026 salary guarantees, citing Aiyuk's failure to check in with the team or adhere to his rehab schedule. He was placed on the reserve/left squad list in December.
Aiyuk had publicly expressed a desire to join the Washington Commanders and reunite with college quarterback Jayden Daniels, but the 49ers retained his rights, requiring reinstatement and a trade. After refusing to take those steps during the offseason, Aiyuk is now complying.
Aiyuk emerged as one of the NFL's top receivers in 2023, catching 75 passes for 1,342 yards and seven touchdowns en route to Super Bowl LVIII. His 3.1 yards per route run ranked third behind Tyreek Hill and Nico Collins, and 81.3% of his receptions gained a first down or touchdown, leading the league. He signed a four-year, $120 million extension after a training camp hold-in, but managed only one game with 50-plus receiving yards in seven appearances before his ACL tear in 2024.
