The 49ers probably wish receiver Brandon Aiyuk hadn’t done it changed his mind at the last minute on a possible trade with the Steelers.
Since that time, Aiyuk signed a four-year extension worth $120 million that, along with his fifth-year option, put him under contract through 2028. He played in seven games, catching 25 passes for 374 yards, before suffering a torn ACL. He hasn’t played since.
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Now, with Aiyuk otherwise owed $26.15 million fully guaranteed in 2026, TheAthletic.com reports that the 49ers canceled future guarantees. The team argued that Aiyuk, according to the report, “failed to attend meetings and refused to participate in other team activities over the past several months.”
And even though it would have otherwise opened the door to a high-stakes grievance, Aiyuk decided not to challenge the decision.
The situation suggests the 49ers will release Aiyuk after the season. He could also be traded, in theory. His next team would assume the unguaranteed financial obligation next season.
The easiest way at this point would be a clean break. The 49ers will have $29.585 million in cap fees to absorb. If he is released with a designation after June 1, the cap hit would be $8.338 million in 2026 and $21.247 million in 2027.
Either way, Aiyuk will come out with $48.15 million for two years – and just seven games.
