49ers coach gives blunt reaction to disgruntled Brandon Aiyuk's return to team: 'I could care less'
A strained return to the facility
Aiyuk was back at the 49ers facility on Friday, amid a dispute that has lasted more than a year. The team voided the remaining guaranteed money on his contract extension after he did not take part in rehabilitation for his knee injuries.
Aiyuk tore his ACL, MCL and meniscus in his right knee during the 2024 season and has not returned to play. San Francisco placed him on its reserve/left team list in December after he stopped reporting to the facility.
Shanahan dismisses meeting prospect
Asked about the possibility of meeting Aiyuk and team officials, head coach Kyle Shanahan said he had little interest. He added that the matter had been over for the football team for a long time.
Aiyuk described his recovery as lengthy but said he felt healthy and was seeking reinstatement into the NFL. He said he was back to 100 percent.
Contract and playing outlook
Aiyuk will remain under contract with San Francisco if the NFL reinstates him. General manager John Lynch has previously said he does not expect Aiyuk to play for the 49ers again.
Before his 2024 injury, Aiyuk recorded 24 catches for 374 yards that season. In 2023, he had 75 receptions for 1,342 yards and seven touchdowns, helping San Francisco reach the Super Bowl.
Key points
- Aiyuk returned to the 49ers facility while seeking NFL reinstatement.
- Shanahan said the situation had long been over for the team.
- Aiyuk said he felt healthy and back to 100 percent.
- John Lynch does not expect Aiyuk to play for San Francisco again.