- May 21, 2026
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It has become very well established that receiver Brandon Aiyuk wants the 49ers to release him, so that he can sign with the Commanders. He can make that happen by showing up for training camp and saying, "I'm ready to work."
The 49ers undoubtedly would cut him in lieu of letting him risk popping an Achilles tendon on the practice field or dropping a dumbbell onto his foot in the weight room. A season-ending injury would result in the 49ers owing him his full compensation for 2026 in excess of $26 million. (Currently, not a penny of it is guaranteed.)
But it's not as simple as Aiyuk walking through the front door. He remains on the reserve/left squad list. By rule, he must apply for reinstatement with the league. Once he's reinstated (it's presumably automatic — but we thought applying for the supplemental draft was automatic, too), he can show up and secure his release.
Aiyuk has a simple way to put the 49ers in checkmate. One, submit the petition for reinstatement. Two, once reinstatement is granted, show up.
It's that easy. It would take minutes to get it started. All he has to do is start it.
The 49ers undoubtedly would cut him in lieu of letting him risk popping an Achilles tendon on the practice field or dropping a dumbbell onto his foot in the weight room. A season-ending injury would result in the 49ers owing him his full compensation for 2026 in excess of $26 million. (Currently, not a penny of it is guaranteed.)
But it's not as simple as Aiyuk walking through the front door. He remains on the reserve/left squad list. By rule, he must apply for reinstatement with the league. Once he's reinstated (it's presumably automatic — but we thought applying for the supplemental draft was automatic, too), he can show up and secure his release.
Aiyuk has a simple way to put the 49ers in checkmate. One, submit the petition for reinstatement. Two, once reinstatement is granted, show up.
It's that easy. It would take minutes to get it started. All he has to do is start it.