Brandon Aiyuk’s NFL Reinstatement Bid Could Force 49ers’ Hand

The ongoing dispute between wide receiver Brandon Aiyuk and the 49ers may be nearing an end, with potential ramifications for the team's future. Aiyuk has submitted a request for reinstatement to the NFL and intends to report to the 49ers on Friday, according to his agent Drew Rosenhaus. Currently listed on the reserve/left squad, Aiyuk is not permitted to play until his reinstatement is approved. The 49ers have not officially commented on the matter, nor has the NFL or the NFL Players Association.

Should Aiyuk successfully regain his eligibility, the 49ers may face a decision regarding his contract, playing status, or even his trade value before the NFL's trade deadline on Tuesday. Given Aiyuk's promising early career, signing a lucrative four-year contract extension in 2024 after a brief hold-in, and his recent social media statements about a potential move to the Commanders, the 49ers could be compelled to either retain him under contract, release him to become a free agent, or trade him before the deadline.

The 49ers, fresh off a bye week, are scheduled to play the Raiders on Sunday in Santa Clara, California.

It remains unclear whether the 49ers have other options regarding Aiyuk’s situation. The injury that sidelined Aiyuk, including a torn ACL and other damage, occurred during a game in October 2024. Following the injury, Aiyuk and the 49ers had a public disagreement, resulting in the voiding of approximately $27 million in contract guarantees by the team, reportedly due to Aiyuk's failure to attend meetings and refuse participation in team activities.

The 49ers have not been obligated to pay Aiyuk's salary while he is on the reserve/left squad list. If Aiyuk does apply for reinstatement and reports to the team, the 49ers' options become more pressing.