Wide receiver Brandon Aiyuk has publicly accused the San Francisco 49ers of dishonesty concerning his contract dispute and declared he will not play for the team again. Aiyuk made these claims in a series of posts on his Instagram stories.
In his posts, Aiyuk stated that the 49ers lied to the media and fans about the situation. He alleged that the team continued to suggest he would return, despite him informing them on multiple occasions that he would not. Aiyuk cited the team's decision to void his contract guarantees in November, which he claims was made in July. He also asserted that he met rehabilitation markers ahead of schedule, supported by footage and GPS data, even before the surgeon's required recovery timeline.
"When the news finally came out that my guarantees were voided in November. The team continued to lie to the media/fan base acting as if that was not a decision that was made in July. Continually saying that I would be returning, despite that fact that I told them on numerous occasions that I would not be. With the severity of my injury and guarantees no longer on the table that was not an option," Aiyuk wrote. He added, "we are 1 year from the date in which they made the decision to void my guarantees due to 'missed rehab' yet they have the footage and the gps information that shows I reached markers I never hit even before injury. All before the required recovery time ordered by the surgeon."
Aiyuk also indicated that he would not be filing for reinstatement with the team. "I will not be reinstating with them nor ever doing any kind of business with them. I’m locked in and focused on my opportunity to return to the field this season! #RAISEHAIL," he posted.
If Aiyuk remains on the "Left Squad List," the 49ers would be permitted to keep him on the roster without counting against space or providing pay. The dispute between Aiyuk and the 49ers has been described as one of the most significant player-team standoffs in NFL history.
Aiyuk has previously expressed a desire to play for another team, specifically mentioning the Washington Commanders, where his former Arizona State teammate Jayden Daniels plays. The 49ers have not publicly responded to Aiyuk's latest statements.