The San Francisco 49ers are reportedly preparing for the 2026 season without wide receiver Brandon Aiyuk. Aiyuk, 28, has been a vocal critic of the team on social media for months and remains on the Left Squad List, meaning he is technically on the roster but does not count against team space or receive pay.
Former All-Pro wide receiver Steve Smith Sr. recently weighed in on the 49ers' wide receiver situation, appearing to contrast Aiyuk with rookie De’Zhaun Stribling. Speaking on "The 89 Show," Smith described Stribling as "what they were hoping Brandon Aiyuk can be, but he has a little bit more mental bandwidth."
Smith further elaborated on Stribling's potential, noting his time with Ole Miss coach Lane Kiffin and suggesting that Kiffin's demanding style might have prepared Stribling for NFL coaching. Smith recalled Aiyuk being in "the doghouse" early in his career due to constant criticism from head coach Kyle Shanahan. He suggested that Stribling's draft represents a potential future for the team's wide receiver corps.
Aiyuk's public criticisms and the ongoing contract dispute have led to concerns about his well-being and mental state. While Smith's comments were not explicitly directed at Aiyuk's mental health, they add another layer to the increasingly strained relationship between the player and the team.
The 49ers appear to be moving forward with their receiving plans, but the future of Aiyuk's career with the team remains uncertain.