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Aiyuk's Instagram Dig Threatens NFL Future, Stays on List

7/5/2026

39 4 Full Breakdown

Summary

Aiyuk Instagram Fallout

Brandon Aiyuk posted an Instagram message criticizing Jayden Daniels, writing “You gonna have to stop running behind your momma…,” and they unfollowed each other.
ESPN analyst Jeremy Fowler said Aiyuk’s post harms his NFL prospects, with teams calling it insensible.
The 49ers have not cut him, keeping him on the left-squad list where he does not count toward the 53-man roster and may have burned his final NFL bridge.

Summary

Aiyuk Salary Void

The 49ers voided about $27 million of wide receiver Deebo Aiyuk’s 2026 guaranteed salary.
Aiyuk has not played since tearing his ACL and MCL in a Week 7 loss to the Chiefs in 2024.
He missed the entire 2025 season recovering from those injuries.
Commanders insiders reported the team would consider a one-year, highly incentivized contract if the 49ers release him.
Former safety T.J. Ward publicly warned Washington’s front office against adding Aiyuk.

Summary

Aiyuk Brands

Aiyuk now follows only four Instagram accounts—Adidas, the Washington Commanders, his wife, and his own clothing brand.
He uses recent videos to promote his newly released book and to discuss a potential move to Washington.
His posts repeatedly mention his personal clothing line, signaling a focus on that venture.
Observers say his off-field branding could affect how teams view his marketability despite on-field doubts.

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Aiyuk Instagram Fallout

Brandon Aiyuk posted an Instagram message criticizing Jayden Daniels, writing “You gonna have to stop running behind your momma…,” and they unfollowed each other.
ESPN analyst Jeremy Fowler said Aiyuk’s post harms his NFL prospects, with teams calling it insensible.
The 49ers have not cut him, keeping him on the left-squad list where he does not count toward the 53-man roster and may have burned his final NFL bridge.

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