Brandon Aiyuk’s future with the San Francisco 49ers continues to be uncertain as the team begins training camp. The organization has not provided updates on his situation, leaving the next move to the wide receiver. Aiyuk is still on the reserve/left squad list since late 2025. To make a potential comeback in 2026, he might need to apply to the NFL for reinstatement.

Efforts to return could involve Aiyuk reporting to training camp or informing the 49ers of his intention to do so. His relationship with the team has been strained over the past year.

‘San Fran wanna see a real reunion?’ – Brandon Aiyuk

The friction peaked last July when the 49ers voided the guaranteed money in his contract due to his failure to engage in rehab for his torn knee ligaments. Aiyuk’s uncertainty regarding his status with the 49ers has been evident in his social media activity, fuelling gossip around his future.

Former NFL wide receiver Roddy White criticized the 49ers’ handling of Aiyuk’s recovery. White stated the team lacked patience and failed to provide Aiyuk an opportunity to prove himself post-injury. This mismanagement, according to White, may complicate any attempt to trade him.

Recently, the 49ers re-signed Deebo Samuel following a knee injury to Ricky Pearsall. Aiyuk’s reaction on Instagram suggested displeasure with this development. His posts were not limited to frustrations with San Francisco, as he also criticized the NFL Players Association.

Aiyuk’s interest in joining the Washington Commanders has cooled after he criticized Commanders quarterback Jayden Daniels. Daniels, however, stated any issues with Aiyuk were resolved privately. Aiyuk and Daniels have a shared history, having played together at Arizona State in 2019.

49ers General Manager John Lynch emphasized the team’s focus on current players during a press conference on July 25. Lynch wished Aiyuk well, indicating the organization’s intention to concentrate on the players present in training camp.

In 2022, Aiyuk achieved a career-high, earning second-team All-Pro honors with 1,342 receiving yards. He only managed to appear in seven games in 2024 due to injury. Meanwhile, Pearsall entered training camp with potential for breakout performance, but early setbacks from knee swelling led to his placement on injured reserve.