San Francisco 49ers Remove Over $26 Million of Guaranteed Salary from Brandon Aiyuk's Contract

The San Francisco 49ers have rescinded more than $26 million in guaranteed money from wide receiver Brandon Aiyuk's contract, following his absence from mandatory team meetings and activities. This development impacts the terms of the four-year, $120 million contract extension Aiyuk signed last year, which originally included a significant guarantee for the 2026 season.

A source familiar with the matter indicated that the team's decision was based on Aiyuk's non-participation in official obligations, a standard requirement in most NFL contracts to maintain guaranteed salary portions. The 49ers have not issued a public statement regarding the adjustment, but reports confirm that the voided guarantee pertains specifically to the 2026 season.

Aiyuk has been sidelined for the entirety of the current season due to ongoing recovery from knee surgery that took place last year. Although there were initial expectations from the coaching staff that he might return to practice by November, Aiyuk remains on the physically unable to perform (PUP) list, and the team has not provided an updated timeline for his potential return to the field.

By removing the guaranteed amount from Aiyuk's contract, the 49ers have created greater flexibility for potential roster changes next year. Should the team opt to release Aiyuk, they would be responsible for approximately $29.5 million in dead cap space, reflecting bonuses already paid. However, existing NFL rules would allow the club to distribute this financial impact over two seasons, thereby easing the immediate salary cap implications.

Aiyuk had secured the substantial contract extension in the previous offseason after a period of limited participation during training camp, reportedly due to ongoing negotiations. This agreement came in the wake of a standout 2023 campaign, during which he recorded 75 receptions for 1,342 yards and seven touchdowns, earning him recognition as a second-team All-Pro.

Despite his promising outlook, Aiyuk's most recent season was curtailed by injury. He appeared in only seven games, registering 25 catches for 374 yards before undergoing knee surgery. Since entering the NFL as a first-round draft selection in 2020, Aiyuk has accumulated 294 receptions, totaling 4,305 yards and 25 touchdowns, establishing himself as a key offensive contributor for San Francisco.

The modification to Aiyuk's contract comes amid broader considerations for the 49ers, who continue to manage roster and salary cap decisions in pursuit of future competitiveness. The situation highlights the importance of contract compliance and player availability in maintaining guaranteed payments within professional sports agreements.

As the 49ers assess their roster strategy moving forward, Aiyuk's status remains uncertain, both regarding his future role with the team and the broader implications for the franchise's financial planning. The organization's next steps will likely be influenced by both his rehabilitation progress and ongoing evaluations of team needs.