Brandon Aiyuk contract dispute could net 49ers $13‑18 million as Washington weighs his future

San Francisco 49ers placed wide receiver Brandon Aiyuk on the reserve/left squad list after he missed the 2025 season with a torn ACL and MCL. The team had signed him to a four‑year, $120 million extension in 2024, but voided roughly $27 million in guarantees in 2026 when he stopped attending mandatory rehab sessions. Team officials estimate the 49ers could recover between $13 million and $18 million of the money already paid.

Aiyuk has publicly criticized the 49ers on social media, posting videos that have been described as distractions. Former 49ers GM John Lynch said Aiyuk had “played his last snap” for the team. Washington Commanders previously expressed interest in acquiring him on a one‑year, heavily incentivized deal, but the recent social‑media outbursts and lingering injury concerns have made the move riskier. If the 49ers release him, Washington could consider signing him, though they would need confidence in his health and mindset.

Aiyuk’s career totals include 294 receptions for 4,305 yards and 27 touchdowns over four seasons. At 28, his future in the NFL hinges on both his physical recovery and whether teams are willing to overlook the off‑field controversy.