Thu Sep 12 07:15:56 UTC 2024: ## Aiyuk’s Debut: Mixed Reviews After Contract Saga
San Francisco 49ers wide receiver Brandon Aiyuk, fresh off a four-year, $120 million contract extension, saw a mixed reception following his performance in the Niners’ Week 1 victory over the New York Jets.
While Aiyuk hauled in just two of five targets for 28 yards, coach Kyle Shanahan expressed satisfaction with his conditioning, stating that Aiyuk “never felt like he wasn’t conditioned” despite missing training camp due to the contract dispute. However, Aiyuk himself contradicted his coach, admitting to feeling “not right” during the game – a feeling he had never experienced before. This admission followed heavy criticism from Peyton Manning for a crucial dropped pass in the end zone and for his absence during camp.
Aiyuk, despite his self-critique, asserted that he felt “solid” after the game and is focused on shaking off the rust in a short week leading up to their matchup against the Minnesota Vikings.
First Piper 