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49ers Delay Cutting Aiyuk to Dodge $25 Million Bonus

5/13/2026

33 6 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

The San Francisco 49ers can postpone cutting Brandon Aiyuk until his Week 1 salary is due, avoiding a $24.94 million 2026 option bonus.
A post-June 1 trade or release would cost the 49ers about $2 million in dead cap.
If the 49ers keep Aiyuk past September, his salary would rise to roughly $26 million.
Veteran receivers Jalin Hyatt (New York Giants) and A.J. Brown (Philadelphia Eagles) are projected to be moved after the 2026 draft.

History

Historical Context

In 1994 the NFL introduced its first salary cap, limiting team payroll to $34.6 million and reshaping contract negotiations. That same year the United Nations declared 1994 the International Year of Sport, while the United States hosted the FIFA World Cup, underscoring a broader shift toward commercial regulation in major sports.

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Story summary

The San Francisco 49ers can postpone cutting Brandon Aiyuk until his Week 1 salary is due, avoiding a $24.94 million 2026 option bonus.
A post-June 1 trade or release would cost the 49ers about $2 million in dead cap.
If the 49ers keep Aiyuk past September, his salary would rise to roughly $26 million.
Veteran receivers Jalin Hyatt (New York Giants) and A.J. Brown (Philadelphia Eagles) are projected to be moved after the 2026 draft.

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