San Francisco 49ers coach Kyle Shanahan said at Monday’s NFL owner meetings in Arizona that his franchise was in no rush to part ways with disgruntled wide receiver Brandon Aiyuk.
The 49ers placed Aiyuk on the “Reserve/Left Squad” list at the end of last season after the pass-catcher stopped reporting to the team facility due to a dispute over his injury recovery and contract guarantees.
It is widely believed across the NFL landscape that Aiyuk has played his last game in San Francisco, but the next steps remain up in the air. The 28-year-old is under contract through the 2028 season after signing a four-year, $120 million deal in 2024.
“Eventually, it will resolve itself,” Shanahan said of the situation. “Hopefully, we get something for it.”
The 49ers have opted against releasing Aiyuk and allowing him to become a free agent. San Francisco would face a $34.6 million dead cap hit if they cut the former All-Pro, according to Spotrac. If the 49ers find a trade partner, they could share the financial strain.
The Commanders have long been considered a favorite to land Aiyuk via trade or free agency if he is released. Washington general manager Adam Peters was part of the front office that drafted the Arizona State product to San Francisco in the first round of the 2020 draft.
“I think everybody on Earth deserves a second chance …,” Peters said when asked about Aiyuk at last month’s scouting combine. “In terms of Brandon, I love the person, but I can’t really comment on the player.”
Aiyuk also played with Commanders quarterback Jayden Daniels at Arizona State. The pair have maintained a close friendship throughout their professional careers.
Washington entered the offseason with a clear hole at wide receiver. The depth chart behind All-Pro Terry McLaurin lacks star power, with Dyami Brown, Luke McCaffrey and Jaylin Lane expected to split targets.
Shanahan mentioned that any Aiyuk deal may drag into the summer, though.
“I know we’re in no rush to do that,” he said.
• Liam Griffin can be reached at lgriffin@washingtontimes.com.
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