Brandon Aiyuk’s time with the San Francisco 49ers appears to be over as the franchise enters the NFL offseason, with the wide receiver expected to continue his career elsewhere after missing the entire 2025 season.
The 49ers are now facing a major decision regarding how and when to move on from Aiyuk. According to ESPN’s Nick Wagoner, releasing the receiver this offseason would result in nearly $30 million in dead money against the team’s salary cap due to voided future guarantees.
San Francisco could instead opt for a post–June 1 release, which would spread the cap impact to $13.325 million in 2026 and $21.247 million in 2027.
Similar figures would apply in the event of a trade, although such a move cannot be officially designated post–June 1 and would require Aiyuk to remain on the roster through the summer.
Despite the financial complications, league observers believe Aiyuk’s departure from San Francisco is inevitable. CBS Sports analyst Tyler Sullivan has identified the Pittsburgh Steelers and Buffalo Bills as potential destinations.
Speaking on CBS Sports HQ on January 21, Sullivan said the Steelers have long monitored Aiyuk’s situation during his turbulent stint with the 49ers.
He noted that despite organizational changes, the front office remains intact and could view Aiyuk as a key piece to strengthen the offense — particularly as a complementary option alongside DK Metcalf.
Sullivan also highlighted Buffalo as an ideal landing spot, especially after another disappointing playoff exit. He argued that the Bills’ lack of elite wide receivers hindered their Super Bowl ambitions.
According to Sullivan, Aiyuk — if healthy — would instantly become Buffalo’s top receiver and their best option since Stefon Diggs, giving quarterback Josh Allen the reliable No. 1 target the team has been missing.
The possibility of Aiyuk’s exit was further reinforced on January 21, when 49ers general manager John Lynch addressed the media during the team’s end-of-season press conference.
“I think it’s safe to say that he’s played his last snap with the Niners,” Lynch said. “It’s unfortunate. A situation that just went awry. Sometimes it just doesn’t work out, and I think this was one of those cases.”
With the organization now openly acknowledging the split, all signs point toward a new chapter in Brandon Aiyuk’s NFL career.
