Is Brandon Aiyuk Leaving the 49ers? Contract Payout Shock and New Injury Update

San Francisco 49ers wide receiver Brandon Aiyuk may be headed for an unexpected exit. The main question now is simple: Is Brandon Aiyuk leaving the 49ers after months of tension and a voided contract guarantee? A new report says a split is likely as the team moves toward releasing him at the end of the season.

The New York Times reported that the 27-year-old is no longer in regular contact with the team. He has missed meetings and declined to take part in team activities. These issues triggered the organization to void his future contract guarantees for 2026, raising major questions about his long-term future in San Francisco.

Contract Payout Breakdown After Aiyuk’s Void Notice

The contract dispute resurfaced only fifteen months after Aiyuk signed a massive four-year, $120 million extension. That deal ended an earlier standoff, but new issues have emerged. As reported by the New York Times, the 49ers have voided the guaranteed money tied to 2026 and are preparing for a potential release once the season ends. This shift is significant because the void opens the door for the team to recover millions.

Aiyuk’s 2026 option bonus was set at $24.935 million. He was scheduled to earn a base salary of $1.215 million for the 2026 season. He also had a $100,000 workout bonus along with roster bonuses of $750,000 per game. All of that is now at risk. The voiding of future guarantees suggests that the team believes his absences violated contractual obligations. It also signals a breakdown in communication and trust between Aiyuk and the organization.

The report says Aiyuk does not plan to file an official grievance. This clears a smoother path for his release at the end of the current campaign. His decision not to contest the void could indicate that he is ready for a fresh start. It also reduces the chances of a lengthy off-season dispute.

This situation raises concerns for fans and analysts because it creates uncertainty around the future of the 49ers’ receiving corps. Aiyuk has been one of the team’s top playmakers in recent seasons. Losing him could reshape the roster and the wider offensive strategy next year.

Aiyuk’s Injury Timeline and Why He Never Returned to the Field

Aiyuk’s absence also ties back to his severe knee injury from October 2024. He suffered ACL, MCL, and meniscus tears during a matchup against the Kansas City Chiefs. He underwent major reconstructive surgery the following month. Recovery was long and complicated.

In July, Aiyuk was placed on the physically unable to perform list. He has not been activated since. Initial expectations suggested he might return late in the current season. But his rehab progress did not reach that stage. Even with encouragement from teammates, he has not rejoined football activities. His injury recovery and his contract situation have collided, creating a confusing and challenging scenario for everyone involved.

The long-term impact of his injury also raises concerns about his future performance. Severe multi-ligament knee injuries require significant rehabilitation. Teams often consider these risks when discussing large financial commitments. This may have added to San Francisco’s decision-making process.

Brandon Aiyuk’s future with the 49ers remains uncertain. His contract void, injury complications, and absence from team activities have combined into a turning point. The team appears prepared to move on, and Aiyuk may be preparing for a new chapter elsewhere.

FYI (keeping you in the loop)-

Q1: Why is Brandon Aiyuk leaving the 49ers?

The team voided his 2026 guarantees after he missed meetings and team activities. Reports suggest communication issues pushed both sides toward a split.

Q2: What did the 49ers void in Aiyuk’s contract?

They voided his 2026 guaranteed money, including a large option bonus and bonuses tied to team participation.

Q3: What injury did Brandon Aiyuk suffer?

He suffered ACL, MCL, and meniscus tears during an October 2024 game. He had reconstructive knee surgery the following month.

Q4: Will the 49ers release Brandon Aiyuk?

Reports indicate that a release is expected at the end of the season. He does not plan to challenge the void, which eases the process.

Q5: Can Aiyuk return to play this season?

No. He remains on the physically unable to perform list. His recovery timeline has not allowed for a return.