After signing a 4-year, $120 million contract in 2023, Brandon Aiyuk was expected to solidify his role as a cornerstone of the San Francisco 49ers. However, a devastating ACL/MCL tear in Week 7 of the 2024 season has cast doubt on his future at Levi’s Stadium. Internal sources reveal that if Aiyuk fails to regain his elite form post-injury, the 49ers are prepared to explore a blockbuster trade to maximize value and rebuild for the future.
Background: Mega Contract Meets Career-Defining Injury
Aiyuk, 27, emerged as a star after being drafted in the first round in 2020, posting back-to-back 1,000+ yard seasons (2022, 2023) and earning Second-team All-Pro honors in 2023. His injury against the Chiefs sidelined him for 10 games, forcing the 49ers to over-rely on Deebo Samuel and George Kittle.
While head coach Kyle Shanahan and GM John Lynch publicly support Aiyuk, NFL Network reports suggest the front office is evaluating all options, including trading him if his recovery falters.
Why the 49ers Might Move On from Aiyuk
Financial Risk:
Aiyuk is set to earn $28.4 million in 2025—the fifth-highest WR salary in the NFL. If he underperforms, the 49ers could reallocate funds to other needs (e.g., CB, DL).
Trading or cutting Aiyuk before June 1, 2025, would incur **21millionindeadcap∗∗(perSpotrac)butsave21millionindeadcap∗∗(perSpotrac)butsave7.4 million.
WR Depth:
The 49ers have Deebo Samuel (in extension talks), Jauan Jennings, and rookie Ricky Pearsall (2024 draft) to fill the void.
2025 Draft Strategy:
With only five 2025 draft picks (lacking a 2nd and 3rd-rounder), trading Aiyuk could net a 1st or 2nd-round pick from a WR-needy team.
Potential Trade Partners
New England Patriots: Rebuilding under HC Jerod Mayo, they need a WR1 for rookie QB Drake Maye.
Carolina Panthers: Desperate to arm Bryce Young with weapons.
Kansas City Chiefs: Could pair Aiyuk with Rashee Rice to boost Patrick Mahomes’ arsenal.
Los Angeles Chargers: Justin Herbert needs targets after losing Keenan Allen and Mike Williams.
Estimated Value: Aiyuk could fetch a 2nd-round pick + 4th-rounder or a conditional 1st-round pick if a team absorbs most of his salary.
Expert Reactions
Chris Simms (NBC Sports): “The 49ers aren’t afraid to trade Deebo Samuel, let alone Aiyuk. They need picks to fix their defense.”
Ian Rapoport (NFL Network): “If Aiyuk struggles in the first five games of 2025, San Francisco will shop him aggressively.”
Shanahan & Lynch: Both declined direct comment but stated, “Every decision serves the team’s ultimate interests.”
Possible Outcomes
Best Case: Aiyuk returns to All-Pro form, propelling the 49ers to Super Bowl contention.
Trade Deadline Move: A slump forces a mid-2025 trade, giving the 49ers draft capital to reload.
Contract Restructure: Aiyuk takes a pay cut to stay, betting on a comeback.
Conclusion: A Ruthless Reality Check
Trading Brandon Aiyuk underscores the 49ers’ “no one is untouchable” philosophy. While painful, the front office prioritizes long-term success over sentimentality. Fans must now wait to see if Aiyuk becomes a legend… or the latest casualty of the NFL’s cutthroat nature.