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n the midst of a strong start to the season, the San Francisco 49ers find themselves in a weird place with one of their stars. After a strong 2023 season that helped the 49ers earn a spot in the Super Bowl, the 49ers agreed to terms on a long term contract extension with wide receiver Brandon Aiyuk after a long standoff over the offseason. But after Aiyuk signed the contract extension, the 49ers gave off a big sense that they were experiencing buyers’ remorse.
And Aiyuk’s 2024 season did not help his case. Struggling in seven games last season, Aiyuk tore his ACL in week 7 and his been out ever since. Still awaiting his debut this season, the 49ers voided his contract guarantees for next season and beyond, putting his future with the team in doubt. On Sunday, Nov, 23 during the FOX pregame show, insider Jay Glazer gave his thoughts on the situation and whether or not he sees Aiyuk playing for the 49ers ever again.
Glazer: ‘It’s up to Brandon’
Aiyuk is still under contract with the 49ers beyond this season, but none of his money is guaranteed anymore, meaning that the 49ers could part ways with him without any serious financial implications. But Aiyuk could also stick around and earn his money if he truly wants to be a 49er. When speaking on the situation, FOX NFL Sunday insider Jay Glazer said that it is ultimately up to Aiyuk if he wants to play for the 49ers again.
“I think it’s up to Brandon Aiyuk. And look, these fines and guarantees were taken back because of him not doing what he’s supposed to do in his rehab all the way back in camp, and he’s continued to incure these fines,” Glazer said. “And I think the answer is, look, if Brandon Aiyuk tries to do what he needs to do to get back with the team, they’re going to love to have him back. But if he continues to miss these things, not only do I not see him playing this year, his career in San Francisco is probably over. It’s up to Brandon.”
The 49ers could use Aiyuk, but they do not need him. Without Aiyuk this season, players such as Ricky Pearsall and Jauan Jennings have been able to step up, with guys like Kendrick Bourne proving to also be solid weapons for quarterback Brock Purdy. If the 49ers do decide to part with Aiyuk, it will free up a lot of cap space that they can allocate to other parts of the roster.
49ers Options Without Aiyuk
Assuming that Aiyuk’s career with the 49ers is over, Pearsall figures to become the full-time No. 1 receiver. Jennings, a free agent after this season, also has a murky future with the 49ers but his chances of coming back increase significantly if Aiyuk is gone.
But losing Aiyuk also opens the door for guys like Jordan Watkins to prove their worth– who the team drafted in the fourth round of the 2025 draft. Whatever the 49ers decide to do, they need to make sure that they have good options in place.
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