Brandon Aiyuk’s contract standoff with the San Francisco 49ers has reached a stalemate. Despite reports of an imminent resolution, nothing has changed, and Aiyuk remains absent from practice.
The 49ers have made it clear that they want Aiyuk to be part of their team, but their patience is wearing thin. General manager John Lynch emphasized that Aiyuk needs to start playing, saying, “At some point, you got to play.”
Aiyuk is currently under contract, but it’s not the deal he wants. He has been medically cleared to practice, but his absence from Wednesday’s session suggests that the standoff is far from over.
Brandon Aiyuk Still in Limbo
The 49ers’ tone has shifted, with coach Kyle Shanahan stating that Aiyuk has been cleared to practice, implying that it’s time for him to get back to work.
The team seems to be running out of patience, and it’s unclear what the next step will be. Aiyuk’s absence is a significant concern, especially with the season opener against the New York Jets just around the corner.
The 49ers did reportedly have a trade framework in place with the Pittsburgh Steelers earlier this month, but it never came to fruition. It’s unclear if the 49ers were ever serious about trading Aiyuk or if they were simply trying to set the market for a new contract.
As the season approaches, the 49ers are under pressure to resolve the situation. They need Aiyuk on the field to have any chance of reaching the Super Bowl. If Aiyuk continues to hold out, the 49ers may need to take a hardline stance and exert their leverage, which includes his $14.1 million salary for this season.
Aiyuk isn’t the only high-profile 49ers player holding out for a new deal. Left tackle Trent Williams is also seeking a new contract, adding to the team’s concerns.
The 49ers are facing a difficult situation, and it’s unclear how it will be resolved. One thing is certain: they need Aiyuk and Williams on the field if they hope to achieve their goals this season.
Lynch expressed optimism that a deal can be reached with Williams, saying, “We value Trent, we love Trent, we want Trent here, and I’m hopeful that can happen soon.”
The 49ers are facing a tough start to the season, and the Aiyuk situation is just one of the many challenges they need to overcome. With the season opener just around the corner, time is running out for a resolution.