Aiyuk has proven to be a mercurial receiver during his career with the 49ers. After back-to-back 1,000-yard seasons in 2022 and 2023 — including a campaign that included 75 catches for 1,342 yards and seven touchdowns in 2023 — Aiyuk entered into a lucrative long-term contract and was involved in a protracted negotiation that included nearly 4 contract disputes (which included nearly 9 contract disputes). under contract with the Pittsburgh Steelers) and a long time in the 2024 preseason.
The two sides reached an agreement — four years, $120 million with $45 million guaranteed at signing and $76 million in total liability — just in time for the start of the 2024 regular season. Aiyuk played in just seven games before suffering a season-ending knee injury in a loss to the Kansas City Chiefs. It would prove to be his last game in a 49ers uniform.
The expected roster move will happen eventually, according to Lynch and Shanahan, who remain mystified by Aiyuk’s conduct.
“I wish I knew,” Lynch said. “I can’t help you.”
San Francisco will continue with a receiving corps that includes 2024 first-round pick Ricky Pearsall, who started his second season with two 100-yard games in his first three contests before a knee injury hampered the rest of his campaign. They’ll also have veteran Demarcus Robinson and youngster Jacob Cowing, leaving plenty of room to fill at the position in 2026.