Brandon Aiyuk and the 49ers are heading toward a separation just 15 months after he signed a $120 million contract extension. This impending split stems from Aiyuk's continued absence from team activities, including meetings, following a season-ending knee injury last October.
The 49ers have become frustrated with his lack of communication. In response to Aiyuk's actions, the team has voided his guaranteed money for the 2026 season, citing his failure to fulfill contractual obligations due to his absence from team events.
Aiyuk has reportedly informed the NFL Players Association that he will not contest this move by the 49ers, which effectively clears the path for his release at the end of the season and allows the team to recoup a significant portion of his contract. Aiyuk, a five-year veteran exclusively with the 49ers, has accumulated 4,305 receiving yards and 25 touchdowns.
His most successful season was in 2023, where he achieved All-Pro second-team honors with 1,342 receiving yards and seven touchdowns in 16 starts. The 49ers currently hold a 7-4 record, placing them third in the NFC West division.
