The San Francisco 49ers have voided $26.15 million in guaranteed money from Brandon Aiyuk’s 2026 contract. This shocking move comes after the star receiver missed team meetings and declined to participate in activities. The four-year, $120 million deal signed just 15 months ago is now effectively over. Aiyuk’s future with the team appears finished.
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🔥 Quick Facts:
- $26.15 million in 2026 guarantees voided by the 49ers on Nov. 22, 2025
- Aiyuk suffered an ACL/MCL tear on Oct. 20, 2024, hasn’t played since
- Remained on PUP list since July 2025 without being activated
- Expected to be released soon, becoming free agent before 2026 season
- Dead cap charge would be approximately $29.5 million if released
What Happened to the 49ers & Brandon Aiyuk
The 49ers made a stunning announcement on Friday, Nov. 21. They voided guaranteed money in their star receiver’s contract. According to ESPN’s Dianna Russini and Mike Silver, the move came after Aiyuk reportedly missed meetings and declined activities. This is the nuclear option in contract disputes.
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Aiyuk’s situation stems from a devastating knee injury. On Oct. 20, 2024, he tore his ACL, MCL, and meniscus. The injury required major reconstructive surgery in mid-November. Since then, he’s been recovering without return to game action. He landed on the PUP (Physically Unable to Perform) list in July and was never activated this season.
Sources indicate Aiyuk grew frustrated with the situation. The receiver wanted clarity on his recovery timeline. Instead of cooperating with the team’s process, he began missing team functions. The 49ers responded by exercising their contractual rights. They voided the 2026 guaranteed money, which totaled $26.15 million according to Spotrac. The option bonus alone was $24.935 million.
Why This Divorce Is So Significant
This move signals a complete breakdown. The 49ers extended Aiyuk just 15 months ago. They signed him to a four-year, $120 million deal with $76 million guaranteed. He was supposed to be part of their future. Now, he’s likely heading out.
For fans, this is heartbreaking. Aiyuk is an elite talent. Before his injury, he was establishing himself as a top receiver. He had great chemistry with quarterback Brock Purdy. The dynamic duo was exciting to watch. But injuries plus frustration equals disaster.
The financial impact matters too. If the 49ers release Aiyuk in 2026, they’ll take a $29.5 million dead cap charge. That’s brutal for salary cap flexibility. Still, getting out from under the guaranteed money was worth it to the organization. They clearly believe the relationship is unsalvageable.
Contract Details & What’s Next
Aiyuk’s contract breakdown reveals the magnitude of this split.
| Contract Element | Details |
|---|---|
| Contract Length | 4 years, signed June 2024 |
| Total Value | $120 million with $76 million guaranteed |
| 2026 Guarantees (Voided) | $26.15 million option bonus removed |
| Dead Cap if Released | $29.5 million charged to 2026 cap |
| Injury Date | Oct. 20, 2024 vs. New Orleans |
What happens now? The 49ers are expected to release Aiyuk before the 2026 season starts. With no guaranteed money, keeping him makes no sense. He’ll likely hit free agency. Other teams may take a flyer on the talented receiver, hoping his knee is healthy. The 2026 offseason will be fascinating.
What’s Next for Brandon Aiyuk & San Francisco
- Aiyuk will likely test free agency in 2026 offseason
- Other NFL teams could pursue him if knee recovery is confirmed
- 49ers look for new receivers in 2025 draft or free agency
- Team saves cap flexibility by voiding the guaranteed funds
- Contract dispute reflects both injury issues and team friction
Several scenarios could play out. Aiyuk might sign a short-term deal to prove his health. A team could offer him a prove-it contract for 2026. The 49ers could theoretically trade him, though no takers seem likely given his injury status. Most probably, he hits free agency healthy and seeks a fresh start elsewhere.
How Did the 49ers’ Dream Extension Fall Apart?
This situation seemed perfect just months ago. The 49ers were confident in Aiyuk’s future. They invested serious money. They believed he’d be their centerpiece for years. Then injury struck. Recovery stalled. Frustration mounted. Now they’re parting ways entirely.
The receiving group will suffer without him. Deebo Samuel and George Kittle remain, but Aiyuk was supposed to be the third piece. His loss impacts the offense significantly. For Kyle Shanahan’s system, chemistry matters immensely. Building new connections takes time.
This saga underscores the risks of long-term contracts in football. Injuries derail plans. Money becomes complicated. Teams protect themselves. Players feel abandoned. Everyone loses.
Sources
- The Athletic – Initial reporting on contract voiding
- ESPN – Dianna Russini and Mike Silver reporting
- Spotrac – Contract and financial details
Michael Brown is a seasoned sports journalist bringing years of experience covering professional athletics and sporting culture. With a keen eye for breaking stories and player dynamics, this veteran journalist delivers in-depth analysis and exclusive insights from the world’s biggest sporting events. His passion for the game shines through in every story, keeping fans connected to the action both on and off the field.