Tue Nov 25 00:20:00 UTC 2025: 49ers-Aiyuk Relationship Strained: Contract Guarantees Voided Amidst Uncertainty

SANTA CLARA, Calif. – The San Francisco 49ers and wide receiver Brandon Aiyuk appear to be at odds, with the team confirming they voided approximately $27 million in guarantees from Aiyuk’s 2026 contract in late July. The move, described by Coach Kyle Shanahan as “extremely unusual,” has raised serious questions about Aiyuk’s future with the team.

Shanahan addressed the situation in a press conference, acknowledging that Aiyuk had missed meetings and team activities. While he hinted at a potential link to Aiyuk’s right knee injury and subsequent rehab, Shanahan stated there were other factors involved, declining to elaborate. Sources suggest the 49ers’ decision stemmed from concerns that Aiyuk wasn’t fulfilling the terms of his contract.

Adding to the uncertainty, Shanahan stated that Aiyuk has not been medically cleared to return and was vague about the level of communication between the two. As of Saturday, Shanahan said he is “not getting much dialogue just personally between him and I.” Currently on the physically unable to perform (PUP) list, Aiyuk is eligible to begin his 21-day practice window, but there is no indication when that might happen.

Despite the tension, Shanahan maintained he wants Aiyuk to return this season. However, the financial implications of the voided guarantees are significant. If the 49ers release Aiyuk next year, they would face a substantial dead cap hit.

Aiyuk signed a four-year, $120 million extension on Aug. 29, 2024. This season, Aiyuk was paid $48 million to appear in seven games after signing the extension. In those contests, he had 25 receptions for 374 yards and zero touchdowns.

Fellow receivers Jauan Jennings and Ricky Pearsall have reached out to Aiyuk, but avoid discussing contract matters. The situation remains fluid, and Aiyuk’s future with the 49ers hangs in the balance.

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