The San Francisco 49ers have reassigned wide receiver Brandon Aiyuk's former jersey number, 11, to Demarcus Robinson as the team continues to sever ties with the estranged player. Aiyuk remains on the Reserve/Left Squad list, a designation that means he will not receive pay and does not count against the team's active roster. This move signals a further detachment from the wide receiver, who has been absent from the team.
Aiyuk signed a four-year, $120 million contract extension in August 2024. He was scheduled to receive a $24.935 million option bonus on September 1, but his current roster status nullifies this payment. General Manager John Lynch stated curtly, "He’s kind of not on our roster," emphasizing the team's stance.
For Aiyuk to return to the team, he would need to formally apply for reinstatement. However, the wide receiver has publicly expressed a firm desire to cut ties with the organization. In July, Aiyuk declared on social media, "I will not be reinstating with them or ever doing any kind of business with them. I’m locked in and focused on my opportunity to return to the field this season!"
Aiyuk last played for the 49ers during the 2024 season, but his participation was limited to just seven games due to a torn ACL. The ongoing standoff between Aiyuk and the team has fueled speculation about the future of his career, particularly given his reported erratic behavior. The team's next game is against the Rams.