Brandon Aiyuk and 49ers clash over contract, release request and social‑media rant

San Francisco 49ers wide receiver Brandon Aiyuk, who is on the team’s reserve/left‑squad list after a season‑ending ACL and MCL injury, used Instagram to launch a profanity‑filled tirade against the organization, calling the 49ers “stupid” and demanding a release. The player’s four‑year, $120 million extension, signed before the 2024 season, had $27 million of guaranteed money voided after he missed rehab sessions and team meetings. Because he remains on the left‑squad list, the 49ers are not required to pay his salary and can cut him without further financial obligation. Aiyuk’s public outbursts have drawn criticism from NFL insiders, who say his approach won’t force a release and that the team can protect its salary‑cap structure by keeping him on the list. In addition, a misdemeanor arrest warrant was issued in Santa Clara County after a speeding video Aiyuk posted near Levi’s Stadium circulated online.