San Francisco 49ers head coach Kyle Shanahan offered a blunt assessment of wide receiver Brandon Aiyuk's return to the team facility on Friday, stating his indifference to the situation.
"I could care less," Shanahan said when asked about a potential meeting between Aiyuk and team management. "It’s been over for our football team for a long time. I don’t hear much except questions about it today. But it’s not too big of a deal for me to answer."
Aiyuk, who has been embroiled in a contract dispute with the 49ers for over a year, returned to the facility. The rift began after the team voided the remaining guaranteed money on his extension, reportedly because Aiyuk did not participate in rehab sessions for a knee injury sustained during the 2024 season. Aiyuk stated upon his arrival that he is "back to 100 percent" and seeking reinstatement into the NFL.
Despite Aiyuk's return and his assertion of full health, Shanahan's comments suggest a significant disconnect. General manager John Lynch had previously expressed doubt about Aiyuk playing for the team again. The 49ers placed Aiyuk on the reserve/left team list in December after he stopped attending team facilities.
Before his injury in 2024, Aiyuk recorded 24 catches for 374 yards. He had a breakout season in 2023, amassing 1,342 receiving yards on 75 receptions and scoring seven touchdowns, helping the 49ers reach the Super Bowl.