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49ers Poised to Move On From Brandon Aiyuk, With Release Seen as Likely

A veteran reporter says San Francisco has already taken NFL Management Council steps to protect its contract position.

Overview

  • General manager John Lynch said last month it is likely Aiyuk has played his last snap for San Francisco.
  • Communication collapsed during Aiyuk’s ACL/MCL rehab in 2025, accelerating the team’s decision to part ways.
  • NBC Sports Bay Area’s Matt Maiocco told KNBR he expects a release, doubts a trade market, and even questions Aiyuk’s chances of playing in 2026.
  • The 49ers have engaged the NFL Management Council on contractual protections, with reports noting a $15.39 million 2026 cap hit and roughly $29.6 million in dead money and voided guarantees.
  • Washington quarterback Jayden Daniels publicly signaled interest in reuniting with Aiyuk, his former Arizona State teammate from 2019.