Story perspectives

Brandon Aiyuk Leaves 49ers, Void $120 Million Deal

7/10/2026

Summary

Story summary

Brandon Aiyuk announced he will not reinstate with the 49ers.
Brandon Aiyuk signed a $120 million extension in 2024, which the 49ers voided for $25 million.
Brandon Aiyuk tore his ACL, MCL and meniscus in October 2024, played seven games, was placed on the reserve/left-squad list in December 2025, ending pay.
Ran Carthon says Washington Commanders, whose GM Adam Peters knows him, fit, noting Brandon Aiyuk taunted quarterback Jayden Daniels on Instagram, prompting unfollows.

History

Historical Context

After the NFL adopted its modern free-agency system on March 1 1993, the league imposed a $57.4 million salary-cap ceiling for the 1994 season—the first year of the cap. The cap forced teams such as the San Francisco 49ers to cut veteran payroll, echoing the earlier reserve-clause era that had bound players since the league’s 1921 constitution.

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Story summary

Brandon Aiyuk announced he will not reinstate with the 49ers.
Brandon Aiyuk signed a $120 million extension in 2024, which the 49ers voided for $25 million.
Brandon Aiyuk tore his ACL, MCL and meniscus in October 2024, played seven games, was placed on the reserve/left-squad list in December 2025, ending pay.
Ran Carthon says Washington Commanders, whose GM Adam Peters knows him, fit, noting Brandon Aiyuk taunted quarterback Jayden Daniels on Instagram, prompting unfollows.

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