Brandon Aiyuk’s Trade Dispute with the San Francisco 49ers Escalates

San Francisco 49ers wide receiver Brandon Aiyuk, 28, remains under a four‑year, $120 million contract despite missing the 2025 season after tearing his ACL and MCL in October 2024. Without an agent since terminating his representation in November 2024, Aiyuk has taken to Instagram and YouTube to air his frustration and demand a trade, primarily to the Washington Commanders. NFL insiders say he has not filed the required paperwork with Commissioner Roger Goodell, and the 49ers have not indicated a definitive course—neither a trade nor a release. The team has described him as “essentially untradeable” and has not committed to cutting him. Aiyuk has also accused head coach Kyle Shanahan of disrespecting him during practice, a claim echoed by former 49er Richard Sherman, who traced the conflict back to the Super Bowl season when Aiyuk felt under‑utilized. The dispute has drawn criticism from other NFL analysts, who warn the public posts could hurt his market value and deter other teams.