Wide receiver
Rosenhaus indicated that the 28-year-old wideout is prepared to resume football activities, stating that Aiyuk is healthy and ready to return to the field. While the filing marks a significant shift in his status, the 49ers must now determine the next steps regarding his contractual rights with the organization.
A turbulent tenure and uncertain future
The relationship between Aiyuk and the 49ers has been strained for several months. The receiver has not appeared in an NFL game since October 20, 2024, when he suffered significant damage to his right knee, including tears to his ACL, MCL, and meniscus, during a contest against the Kansas City Chiefs. Tensions escalated in December when the team placed him on the reserve/left squad list following his failure to report to the facility. This followed a July 2025 decision by the franchise to void approximately $27 million in guaranteed money from his contract, citing his failure to attend mandatory rehabilitation sessions and check-ins.
Despite his previous status as a standout performer—earning second-team All-Pro honors in 2023 after recording 75 catches for 1,342 yards and seven touchdowns—the current leadership in San Francisco has signaled that his time with the team has concluded. Both general manager John Lynch and head coach Kyle Shanahan have maintained that Aiyuk has played his final snap for the franchise. When questioned in September about a potential reconciliation, Shanahan dismissed the possibility.
Potential outcomes and trade deadline implications
With the
However, the landscape in Washington has shifted, with the Commanders adding veteran receiver Stefon Diggs and prioritizing the development of their current roster. For now, Aiyuk remains on the reserve/did not report list, meaning he does not count against the 49ers' active roster and is not receiving compensation from the team. The 2020 first-round draft pick, selected 25th overall, now awaits the team's decision on his immediate future.
