Brandon Aiyuk's 49ers contract dispute fuels trade talk with Washington Commanders

San Francisco 49ers wide receiver Brandon Aiyuk, who signed a four‑year, $120 million extension in August 2024, missed the remainder of the 2024 season after tearing his ACL and MCL. He has been absent for the 2025 campaign, missing rehabilitation sessions and allegedly cutting off communication with the team, leading the 49ers to void about $27 million in future guarantees. General manager John Lynch has suggested Aiyuk’s last snap with the 49ers may already have occurred.

Aiyuk has publicly signaled his desire to leave, posting Instagram videos chanting “Go Commanders” and praising former Washington quarterback Mark Rypien. He wants to reunite with former Arizona State teammate quarterback Jayden Daniels, now with the Washington Commanders. The 49ers have not released him, but a split appears imminent, with the team expected to consider a release before training camp. While several teams, including the New Orleans Saints and Carolina Panthers, have been mentioned as potential destinations, the Washington Commanders dominate the trade market.

Former NFL players such as LeSean McCoy have voiced support for Aiyuk’s wish to join Washington. The ongoing impasse has drawn attention across NFL media and fantasy circles, highlighting a rare scenario where a player under a substantial contract is openly seeking a new team.