Aiyuk has been posting a few cryptic messages on social media this offseason.
It’s been a primarily drama-free offseason for the San Francisco 49ers. They got away from contract disputes and were able to extend three of their stars (Brock Purdy, George Kittle, and Fred Warner) before the start of organized team activities (OTAs).
Apart from that, they’ve had a focus on getting younger, letting several veterans walk in free agency, and making 11 selections in the 2025 NFL Draft, with many selections having opportunities for starting jobs sooner rather than later.
However, there has been some controversy recently regarding wide receiver Brandon Aiyuk, who recently expressed his displeasure with trade rumors on social media, pointing out his injuries and rehab.
It was unclear who exactly Aiyuk’s frustration was directed at, but nonetheless, it caught the attention of social media, with questions now popping up about his place with the team.
Well, NFL Network’s Mike Garafolo recently spoke about Aiyuk’s relationship with the 49ers, believing both sides to be in a good place heading into training camp.
“Now, I know folks are reading into Brandon Aiyuk’s comments as he makes his way back from an ACL injury,” Garafolo said. “My understanding is Brandon Aiyuk is in a really good space with the team. They’ve got to get him healthy and keep him focused. If they do, that’s another add back to the mix with all this talent on the team.”
The health factor seems to be the most important in this case, as head coach Kyle Shanahan shared that it’s likely he’s one of the players who will not be ready for the start of training camp.
Aiyuk has been rehabbing the torn ACL and MCL injuries he suffered in October last year, and is a candidate to start the year on the Physically Unable to Perform (PUP) list, which would allow the 49ers at least four extra weeks to get him healthy.
Of course, the 49ers are still banking on some production from Aiyuk this year, as they paid him a four-year, $120 million extension last offseason and traded Deebo Samuel to the Washington Commanders.
If Aiyuk can return to his former self, that would provide Brock Purdy with a true No. 1 wide receiver, aiding the development of 2024 first-round pick Ricky Pearsall. But, it’s imperative the 49ers ensure he’s 100 percent healthy before risking him in a game-like setting.
It’s interesting that Garafolo also mentioned the focus aspect. Aiyuk has been one of the team’s top workers during the offseason in past years, notably dominating training camp two offseasons ago before breaking out as an All-Pro-caliber receiver.
Now, it’ll be the second-straight offseason where Aiyuk likely won’t be able to fully participate with the team, as he’ll be focused on his rehab. So, the mental reps with Brock Purdy will be minimal, which could be another roadblock that delays his return.
Nonetheless, the focus seems to be on Aiyuk’s health, and it’s a good sign that he’s in a really good place with the team heading into the latter half of the offseason.