Brandon Aiyuk Seeks Return to 49ers Roster After Hiring Drew Rosenhaus

Brandon Aiyuk has filed for reinstatement with the San Francisco 49ers, a procedural step that allows the team to officially trade or release the wide receiver. The move follows his recent hiring of agent Drew Rosenhaus to manage his professional affairs.

According to NFL insider Adam Schefter, Aiyuk is expected to report to the 49ers' facilities on Friday to complete the paperwork. Rosenhaus stated that his client is healthy and physically prepared to play. If the league approves the reinstatement, San Francisco will hold the contract rights and decide whether to move Aiyuk to another franchise or cut ties entirely.

General Manager John Lynch suggested approximately ten months ago that Aiyuk had likely played his final snap for the team. The franchise is currently seeking compensation for parting ways with the receiver. ESPN reported that a release is the most probable outcome if the reinstatement is approved, though it remains unclear if another team will offer a trade package.

The dispute originated in October 2024 when Aiyuk suffered a torn ACL. He was placed on the Physically Unable to Perform list before the 2025 season for rehabilitation. In December, the 49ers moved him to the reserve list, citing a lack of communication and missed contractual check-ins. Aiyuk attributed the issue to his focus on a personal rehab schedule.

During the offseason, Aiyuk criticized the 49ers on social media and signaled interest in reuniting with former college teammate Jayden Daniels in Washington. Because the 49ers retained his contract, he was required to file for reinstatement before a trade could be processed. He refused to take these steps during the break but has now completed the formalities.

Aiyuk earned his status as an elite receiver during the 2023 season. He recorded 75 receptions for 1,342 yards and seven touchdowns, helping lead San Francisco to the Super Bowl LVIII title game. His yards per route run ranked third in the NFL behind Tyreek Hill and Nico Collins. Additionally, his percentage of receptions that resulted in a first down or touchdown led the league.

Following the Super Bowl appearance, Aiyuk used a hold-in strategy during training camp to secure a four-year contract extension worth $120 million. He played in seven games during the 2024 season before his injury ended the year. In those appearances, he reached the 50-yard receiving mark in only one contest.