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It seems, San Francisco 49ers and Brandon Aiyuk faces an ugly ending, despite the veteran receiver only signing a long-term deal with the franchise last season.
Ayuk, who has been out all season with a knee injury suffered during the 2024 campaign, was expected to return at some point in 2025.
But the situation has become so tense Athletic reports that San Francisco has forgone the guaranteed money in its 2026 contract – a $24.935 million option bonus.
Because of this reported void, there is now speculation that Aiyuk's time in the Bay Area may soon be coming to an end.
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San Francisco 49ers wide receiver Brandon Aiyuk walks down the field before kickoff against the Kansas City Chiefs at Levi's Stadium. (Cary Edmondson-Imagn Images)
The publication reports that Aiyuk has “failed to attend meetings and refused to participate in other team activities in recent months,” leading to frustration within the organization.
“Sources say the 49ers responded by voiding the guaranteed money in Ayuk’s 2026 contract, saying the absence amounted to a failure to meet his contractual obligations,” The Athletic reported.
Aiyuk, according to multiple league sources, told NFL Players Association officials that he did not want to challenge the move through a formal complaint. This will clear the way for his expected release at the end of the season.”
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Aiyuk signed a four-year, $120 million extension with the organization in August 2024 after a rollercoaster period due to contract disputes.
However, in October of that year, Aiyuk tore the cruciate ligament and MCL in his right knee, ending his season and keeping him sidelined for much of the 2025 campaign.
San Francisco 49ers wide receiver Brandon Aiyuk runs with the ball after a catch during training camp at the SAP Performance Facility. (Robert Edwards/USA Today Sports)
Given the size of the extension, it would be a surprise if Ayuk becomes a free agent in 2026. He was selected by the team in the first round of the 2020 draft. NFL Draft and had a breakout season in 2022, totaling 78 receptions for 1,015 yards and eight touchdowns.
Then in 2023, Aiyuk established himself as the 49ers' leading pass catcher with 1,342 yards on 75 catches and seven touchdowns. This success led to Arizona Product to seek a new contract through the 2024 season despite having one year left on his rookie contract after the 49ers picked up his fifth-year option.
San Francisco 49ers wide receiver Brandon Aiyuk is introduced before the game against the New York Jets at Levi's Stadium on September 9, 2024. (Darren Yamashita-Imagn Images)
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It's currently unclear whether Aiyuk will play again for San Francisco, which enters Week 12 with a 7-4 record. The 49ers are still among the teams that still have a bye week coming up in Week 14.
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