The 49ers GM reiterated Aiyuk is part of the 49ers long term plan on Monday
The NFL annual meeting is underway in Florida, and the NFL brasses are well represented. John Lynch spoke to reporters today and shared an update on Brandon Aiyuk amidst constant trade rumors surrounding the star wide receiver.
The 49ers signed Aiyuk at the last moment to a four-year, 120 million contract right before the 2024 season opener against the New York Jets. After an up-and-down 2024 season, Aiyuk suffered a devastating knee injury against the Kansas City Chiefs, which ended his season. The injury was a torn ACL, MCL, and meniscus.
The NFL Scouting Combine was the first time Lynch publicly acknowledged listening to offers for Aiyuk. The next wrinkle was April 1st, when Aiyuk is due a roster bonus of 22.85 million. Combining the uncertainty of the recovery from injury and the roster bonus, moving Aiyuk is unlikely. Lynch confirmed the team’s confidence in Aiyuk today.
“There are no regrets,” Lynch said. “We love Brandon Aiyuk as a football player. We did when we drafted him. We’re excited to move forward with him.”
Adam Schefter stated on his podcast that Aiyuk could return midseason while recovering from his knee injury following a meeting with Dr. Neal ElAttrache, who performed his surgery. Lynch shared an update on Aiyuk’s recovery.
“But he did very well,” Lynch said. “We’re pleased with Brandon’s progress. He’s been working hard and got good reviews from Dr. ElAttrache. That was a key marker, as I mentioned it would be. He did well.”
Time will tell how quickly the receiver can return, but this is a positive update. Despite the 49ers’ attempts to get younger and reset their salary cap situation, Lynch believes Aiyuk is part of the 49ers’ long-term vision.
“We’ve always been interested in Brandon being a part of the Niners,” Lynch said. “We made that decision when we signed him. It’s good to hear that he’s tracking well with his progress. He’s working really hard to do so. And I fully expect Brandon Aiyuk will be a part of us moving forward.”