Aiyuk and 49ers: Contract dispute escalates amid legal charges

San Francisco 49ers wide receiver Brandon Aiyuk has launched a public critique of the organisation, describing the club as “stupid” and “dumb” in a recent social media post. The 28-year-old alleges that the team’s hostility stems from financial disagreements regarding his contract, specifically claiming they are upset because they paid him $50 million over eight months before voiding his guarantees.

Aiyuk, who is currently on the reserve/left squad list, has not spoken to head coach Kyle Shanahan or general manager John Lynch since leaving the team late last season. His communication with the organisation has been limited to social media messages. The rift intensified after the 49ers voided $27 million in guaranteed money for the 2026 season, citing his failure to participate in meetings and other team activities.

The receiver signed a four-year, $120 million extension with the 49ers just before the start of the 2024 season. This deal followed a lengthy contract “hold-in” that kept him out of practice during the summer. Aiyuk played seven games that season, recording 25 catches, before suffering a season-ending knee injury in October 2024.

Despite having three years remaining on his extension, including a nearly $25 million option bonus due before the start of this season, Aiyuk now has no guaranteed money remaining. He will not be owed anything unless he reports to the team. General manager John Lynch has stated he does not expect Aiyuk to play for the team again, with the club reportedly waiting to see if another club is willing to trade for him.

Compounding the dispute, an arrest warrant has been issued by Santa Clara County against Aiyuk for a misdemeanor charge of exhibition of speeding. This legal action follows a December social media video that appeared to show him speeding on the road in front of Levi’s Stadium. Since being drafted in the first round in 2020, Aiyuk has recorded 294 catches for 4,305 yards and 25 touchdowns.