49ers Void $26.15 Million in Brandon Aiyuk’s Contract After Dispute

The San Francisco 49ers voided $26.15 million in guaranteed money from Brandon Aiyuk’s contract. This decision came after the wide receiver missed team meetings and declined activities. The move signals a major rift between the player and the organization.

Aiyuk has been on the Physically Unable to Perform list since July 2025. He suffered a severe knee injury in October 2024. His future with the 49ers now appears over.

What Led to the Contract Voidance

The 49ers announced the contract voidance on November 21, 2025. According to ESPN, Aiyuk failed to attend mandatory team meetings. He also refused to participate in scheduled activities.

This action followed Aiyuk’s lengthy recovery from an ACL and MCL tear. The injury occurred during a game against New Orleans in 2024. He underwent reconstructive surgery that November.

Team sources indicated growing frustration from both sides. Aiyuk wanted more clarity on his rehabilitation timeline. The 49ers felt his actions violated contract terms.

Financial and Team Impact

The voided money includes a $24.935 million option bonus for 2026. This was part of Aiyuk’s four-year, $120 million extension signed in June 2024. The deal originally contained $76 million in guarantees.

If the 49ers release Aiyuk before the 2026 season, they’ll absorb a $29.5 million dead cap charge. This would significantly impact their salary cap flexibility. However, removing the guarantees provides some financial relief.

The team must now rebuild their receiving corps without their star player. This affects offensive strategies for the coming seasons. Quarterback Brock Purdy loses his primary deep threat.

Broader Implications for NFL Contracts

This situation highlights the fragility of NFL contract guarantees. Teams include specific language to protect against player conduct issues. The 49ers exercised these clauses in Aiyuk’s case.

Other franchises will likely study this case for future negotiations. Player behavior during injury recovery becomes increasingly important. Contract disputes can escalate quickly in professional sports.

For Aiyuk, his market value depends on proving his health. He’ll need medical clearance before signing with any new team. A prove-it deal might be his best option for 2026.

The 49ers’ decision to void Brandon Aiyuk’s contract marks a dramatic organizational shift. This move underscores the business realities of professional football. Aiyuk’s career now enters an uncertain new chapter.

Thought you’d like to know

Why did the 49ers void Aiyuk’s contract guarantees?

The team voided the money after Aiyuk missed meetings and declined activities. This followed disagreements about his injury recovery process and timeline.

How much guaranteed money was removed?

Exactly $26.15 million in 2026 guarantees was voided. This included a $24.935 million option bonus that was previously secured.

What injury did Brandon Aiyuk suffer?

Aiyuk tore his ACL, MCL, and meniscus in October 2024. He required reconstructive surgery and missed the entire 2025 season while recovering.

Will Aiyuk play for the 49ers again?

It appears very unlikely. The relationship has deteriorated significantly. The 49ers are expected to release him before the 2026 season begins.

What happens to Aiyuk’s contract now?

The remaining years become non-guaranteed. The 49ers can release him with a substantial dead cap hit. Aiyuk will likely become a free agent.

How does this affect the 49ers’ salary cap?

Releasing Aiyuk would create a $29.5 million dead cap charge for 2026. However, voiding the guarantees provides some future cap relief for the organization.