Brandon Aiyuk’s future with the San Francisco 49ers has been the center of trade speculation for months, but the team has now provided clarity on the situation.
At the NFL’s annual league meetings this week, 49ers General Manager John Lynch made it clear that Aiyuk is expected to stay with the team in 2025.
A Crucial Contract Milestone for Aiyuk
Tuesday, April 1 marked a crucial point in Aiyuk’s contract timeline. His 2026 option-bonus guarantee of $22.85 million officially vested, solidifying the wide receiver’s financial commitment to the 49ers.
Aiyuk is set to earn $24.875 million this year and $27 million in 2026, reinforcing his status as a cornerstone of the team’s offense.
Lynch reiterated the team’s confidence in their decision, saying, “There are no regrets. We love Brandon Aiyuk as a football player. We did when we drafted him, and we’re excited to move forward with him.”
Why a Trade Now Seems Unlikely
While trade talks gained traction earlier in the offseason, the passing of this contractual milestone makes any deal far less likely. Aiyuk proved his value to the team during a breakout 2023 season, recording over 1,300 receiving yards and earning second-team All-Pro honors.
Despite suffering an ACL and MCL injury in 2024, Lynch expressed optimism about Aiyuk’s recovery. “He’s tracking well with his progress,” Lynch shared. “He’s working really hard, and it’s good to hear that he’s on the right path.”
The 49ers would face significant financial and strategic hurdles in trading Aiyuk at this stage. Not only would a trade create dead cap complications, but it would also deprive the team of one of its most dynamic offensive players.
With the 2025 season fast approaching, the organization seems committed to maintaining continuity and building around its young core of talented playmakers. Aiyuk’s continued presence ensures the offense remains steady and productive as the team looks toward a deep playoff run.
Aiyuk’s Role in a New-Look Offense
With Deebo Samuel traded earlier in the offseason to the Washington Commanders, the 49ers are placing even greater emphasis on Aiyuk’s role in their offense. His presence will be crucial in supporting quarterback Brock Purdy and maintaining the team’s dynamic passing attack.
Brandon Aiyuk appears firmly entrenched in San Francisco’s plans for the upcoming season. His contributions to the offense, combined with his strong contract position, make him an essential piece of the 49ers’ championship aspirations.
With Aiyuk healthy and ready to return to form, the Niners are poised to keep their Super Bowl ambitions alive in 2025.