Embattled San Francisco 49ers wide receiver Brandon Aiyuk has taken a significant step toward returning to the NFL by hiring Drew Rosenhaus as his new agent. ESPN NFL insider Adam Schefter reported that Rosenhaus is actively working to get Aiyuk "back to work and playing again in the NFL."
Rosenhaus is renowned as one of the most successful agents in professional football, with a client list that has included prominent NFL stars such as Tyreek Hill, Jalen Carter, D.J. Moore, and Chris Olave. Aiyuk stated that he has been without an agent since November 2025, when he announced the dismissal of his previous representative, Ryan Williams of Athletes First.
However, Pro Football Talk reported in June that Aiyuk had not formally concluded the process to terminate his representation agreement with Williams. This situation has been ongoing since Aiyuk tore his ACL in 2024. The receiver, who has achieved two seasons with over 1,000 receiving yards, has been in a protracted dispute with the 49ers organization.
In December 2025, the 49ers placed Aiyuk on the reserve/left team list, and he has remained inactive since then due to his non-participation in team activities. He also missed OTAs and minicamp during the spring. Aiyuk had previously engaged in public criticism of 49ers head coach Kyle Shanahan and general manager John Lynch, calling them "weirdos" over the summer. Additionally, Aiyuk faced a misdemeanor charge for speeding, which resulted in an arrest warrant in June. He also expressed an intention to be traded to the Washington Commanders during the offseason, a situation that led to a public feud with quarterback Jayden Daniels.
The hiring of Rosenhaus suggests a potential shift in Aiyuk's situation, possibly paving the way for resolution of his contract dispute and a return to active play.