- May 21, 2026
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Receiver Brandon Aiyuk's path to free agency, as we've said before (more than a few times) is simple. One, file a petition with the league for reinstatement from the reserve/left squad list. Two, once reinstated, show up for training camp. At that point, the 49ers most likely would release him.
Aiyuk has made it clear that he won't be doing that.
In his latest Instagram story — which consists of a statement, not a video — Aiyuk says this: "I will not be reinstating with them or ever doing any kind of business with them. I'm locked in and focused on my opportunity to return to the field this season! #RAISEHAIL"
In a separate post, Aiyuk accused the 49ers of lying to the media and the fan base regarding the decision to void his guarantees and his intent to return to the team.
Regardless, unless the 49ers release him from the reserve/left squad list (they have no incentive to do that), he'll continue to be in limbo. The thing he refuses to do is the one thing he needs to do in order to force the team's hand.
Either he doesn't realize this or he doesn't care. Neither explanation will get him to the Commanders.
Aiyuk has made it clear that he won't be doing that.
In his latest Instagram story — which consists of a statement, not a video — Aiyuk says this: "I will not be reinstating with them or ever doing any kind of business with them. I'm locked in and focused on my opportunity to return to the field this season! #RAISEHAIL"
In a separate post, Aiyuk accused the 49ers of lying to the media and the fan base regarding the decision to void his guarantees and his intent to return to the team.
Regardless, unless the 49ers release him from the reserve/left squad list (they have no incentive to do that), he'll continue to be in limbo. The thing he refuses to do is the one thing he needs to do in order to force the team's hand.
Either he doesn't realize this or he doesn't care. Neither explanation will get him to the Commanders.