Is Brandon Aiyuk Out for All of 2025 Because of His Knee Injury? Brandon Aiyuk Injury Update

Brandon Aiyuk is expected to miss the entire 2025 season after suffering a severe knee injury that required major surgery. The 49ers kept him on the physically unable to perform list all year as his recovery stalled. This Brandon Aiyuk Injury Update explains what happened, what his rehab looks like, and what it means for his future with San Francisco.

The injury has become one of the most difficult issues the 49ers have faced this season. Team officials hoped he would return in 2025, but medical evaluations show he is still far from being cleared. The setback has also created major questions about his long-term role with the team.

The Latest Medical Outlook for Brandon Aiyuk

Brandon Aiyuk tore his ACL, MCL, and meniscus in October 2024 during a matchup against the Kansas City Chiefs. Multiple major ligament tears make this one of the most serious knee injuries in professional football. According to updates reported by outlets including AP and ESPN, recovery from this type of injury often takes far longer than standard ACL rehab.

Surgery followed immediately after the injury. Doctors described the damage as “complex,” and rehabilitation has been slow. Aiyuk has not practiced with the team in 2025. He has not taken part in on-field drills, walkthroughs, or individual position work. Team sources have told national reporters that his progress has not reached the level needed for football activity.

The 49ers placed him on the physically unable to perform list for the entire season. He has now missed more than a full year of action since the surgery. While the 49ers remained hopeful early in the offseason, internal expectations changed as the months passed. Medical staff members reportedly see no realistic path for him to return before the season ends.

The absence has changed San Francisco’s entire offensive structure. Aiyuk was one of the most productive receivers in the league before the injury. He earned second-team All-Pro honors in 2023. His ability to create separation, stretch the field, and make plays after the catch made him a key piece of the offense.

What This Means for His Future in San Francisco

The long recovery has also created major contract complications. According to AP reporting, the 49ers voided future guaranteed money for 2026 after Aiyuk missed required team activities. That opened the door for the team to move on from him without financial penalties.

Most league insiders now expect the 49ers to release him during the 2026 offseason. While the team has praised his work ethic publicly, behind-the-scenes evaluations suggest little optimism that he will return to his pre-injury form soon. Severe multi-ligament knee injuries have ended careers in the past, and few players return to full explosiveness.

The front office has shifted toward preparing for life without Aiyuk. Younger receivers have taken larger roles. Coaches have restructured the passing attack to compensate for his absence. Aiyuk’s complete silence about his rehab and lack of visible activity have added to concerns.

Right now, the most likely scenario is that Brandon Aiyuk will leave the 49ers after the season. His future in the NFL depends on how his knee responds to another year of recovery. This Brandon Aiyuk Injury Update reflects the latest available information on a difficult and uncertain situation.

FYI (keeping you in the loop)-

Q1: How severe is Brandon Aiyuk’s knee injury?

He tore his ACL, MCL, and meniscus. This is far more serious than a standard ACL tear. Recovery often takes more than a year.

Q2: Will Brandon Aiyuk play at all in 2025?

No. Current evaluations indicate he will miss the entire season. He is not close to being cleared for football activity.

Q3: Is Brandon Aiyuk expected to remain with the 49ers?

Most reports suggest the team will move on after the season. Contract adjustments make it easier for the team to release him.

Q4: Could Brandon Aiyuk return to his previous level of play?

It is possible but uncertain. Multi-ligament knee injuries often limit long-term explosiveness. Doctors typically monitor progress year to year.

Q5: When will the next update on his rehab likely come?

Teams usually give medical updates during offseason meetings or mandatory camps. Fans will likely hear more in early 2026.

References

Associated Press. (2025). “49ers continue evaluating WR Brandon Aiyuk as recovery extends through season.” Published 2025.

ESPN. (2025). “Brandon Aiyuk’s multi-ligament knee injury delays return timetable.” Published 2025.

BBC News. (2025). “NFL injury outlook: major players sidelined in 2025 season.” Published 2025.