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49ers Keep Aiyuk, Seek Trade—Washington Leads

5/1/2026

Summary

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In the United States, the San Francisco 49ers said they will not cut Brandon Aiyuk and will trade him.
GM John Lynch said the team is open to any trade and asked teams to call.
Aiyuk’s contract includes a $24.9 million option bonus due Sept. 1, 2026.
Ian Rapoport reported Aiyuk has no guaranteed money left after rehab issues, citing $27 million.
Washington Commanders GM Adam Peters, former 49ers VP of player personnel, wants a short-term deal.
Kevin Sheehan said there is at least an 80 percent chance Aiyuk will join Washington.

Summary

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Ran Carthon, ex-49ers pro-personnel director, described Aiyuk as a natural worker with a quiet demeanor and firm principles.
Aiyuk and quarterback Jayden Daniels were college teammates at Arizona State, a connection Washington hopes will aid chemistry.
He has avoided media interviews for over a year, posting a December video that showed him speed-ing 100 mph in a 40 mph zone at Levi’s Stadium.
Aiyuk later apologized for the incident on his YouTube channel.
Washington’s recent roster additions include third-round pick Antonio Williams and short-term contracts for Van Jefferson and Dyami Brown to add WR depth.

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The dispute is being framed as a clash between player power and contractual obligations, with neither side yielding.
49ers analyst argues the team is “holding him hostage” and urges an immediate end to the saga.
Sam Lubman of 95.7 The Game posted on Twitter that the 49ers should cut Aiyuk “ASAP,” echoing fan frustration.
The franchise could release Aiyuk after June 1, but may wait until August 31 to avoid the September 1 roster bonus.
Washington’s Commanders have indicated they do not want to trade for Aiyuk and are prepared to wait.
San Francisco has already added Mike Evans, Christian Kirk, drafted De'Zhaun Stribling No. 33 in 2026, and retains Ricky Pearsall, rendering Aiyuk a perceived distraction.

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Story summary

In the United States, the San Francisco 49ers said they will not cut Brandon Aiyuk and will trade him.
GM John Lynch said the team is open to any trade and asked teams to call.
Aiyuk’s contract includes a $24.9 million option bonus due Sept. 1, 2026.
Ian Rapoport reported Aiyuk has no guaranteed money left after rehab issues, citing $27 million.
Washington Commanders GM Adam Peters, former 49ers VP of player personnel, wants a short-term deal.
Kevin Sheehan said there is at least an 80 percent chance Aiyuk will join Washington.

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