Brandon Aiyuk’s time in San Francisco appears to be nearing its end - and not with the kind of sendoff anyone expected after his breakout seasons. According to 49ers general manager John Lynch, the talented wide receiver has likely played his final down in a Niners uniform. And while nothing’s official yet, the writing’s on the wall.
Aiyuk didn’t take the field at all this past season, sidelined by lingering knee injuries that never quite healed the way the team had hoped. But even with a year away from game action, he’s still drawing serious interest across the league. That’s what happens when you’re a 6-foot wideout with elite route-running ability, strong hands, and a résumé that includes nearly 300 career catches and over 4,000 receiving yards.
One team to keep an eye on? The Washington Commanders.
There’s a clear connection there. Washington’s front office now includes Adam Peters, a former 49ers executive who knows Aiyuk well.
And with Deebo Samuel heading into free agency, there’s a potential opening in the Commanders’ receiving corps.
There’s also the Jayden Daniels factor. Aiyuk and Daniels were teammates at Arizona State, and a reunion in D.C. could offer both comfort and chemistry for a Commanders offense in transition.
But there’s a financial hurdle here - and it’s a big one. Aiyuk’s current deal, a four-year, $120 million extension signed in 2024, carries a $27 million price tag for the upcoming season.
That’s a steep number for any team, especially for a player who hasn’t suited up since mid-2024.
The 49ers, fresh off a divisional-round playoff exit, were reportedly close to trading Aiyuk to the Pittsburgh Steelers last year before that extension came together. At the time, both sides seemed committed to making it work. But the injury setbacks - and some reported off-field concerns, including missed rehab sessions - have changed the equation.
Now, with Aiyuk’s future in San Francisco looking all but over, the question becomes where he fits next. He’s still just 27, and when healthy, he’s one of the more dynamic receivers in the league. His career numbers - 294 receptions, 4,305 yards, 25 touchdowns - tell the story of a player who knows how to produce.
If he can get back on the field and stay there, Aiyuk could be a difference-maker again. Whether that happens in Washington or somewhere else, there’s no doubt teams will be watching closely.