Star wide receiver Brandon Aiyuk has publicly stated his desire to remain with the San Francisco 49ers for the upcoming season, despite ongoing contract negotiations. Entering the final year of his rookie contract, Aiyuk addressed his situation at Los Angeles International Airport, telling TMZ Sports that he is ready to play for the 49ers even without a contract extension agreement. This declaration brings clarity to a situation that had been clouded by speculation and social media posts.
Aiyuk’s commitment to the 49ers comes even as contract talks appear to have stalled. He is currently playing under his rookie deal and is due to count $14.124 million against the salary cap in 2024. Coming off a strong season with 75 receptions, 1,342 receiving yards, and seven touchdowns, Aiyuk is seeking a lucrative contract extension that reflects his value to the team.
Earlier this month, Aiyuk fueled speculation about his future with a cryptic TikTok video. The video, featuring a FaceTime call with his former Arizona State teammate and current Washington Commanders quarterback Jayden Daniels, included a line where Aiyuk said, “They said they don’t want me back.” This post led to questions about whether Aiyuk believed the 49ers were unwilling to keep him, either for the current season or beyond. However, his recent statement to TMZ Sports clarifies his position: he wants to be a 49er in 2024.
Image: Brandon Aiyuk in action for the San Francisco 49ers, expressing his commitment to the team despite contract negotiations.
Aiyuk’s absence from the 49ers’ offseason program and mandatory minicamp further highlighted the contract dispute. His decision to skip minicamp resulted in fines exceeding $101,000. These actions underscored the tension surrounding his contract situation and the desire for a new deal before the season begins.
Veteran 49ers wide receiver Deebo Samuel has been in contact with Aiyuk, offering advice based on his own contract negotiations with the team in 2022. Samuel, who also sought a contract extension and even requested a trade at one point, ultimately signed a three-year extension with San Francisco. His primary advice to Aiyuk has been to exercise patience as the negotiation process unfolds.
Despite the contract stalemate and previous uncertainties, Brandon Aiyuk has now publicly stated his intention to play for the 49ers in 2024. While the long-term contract situation remains unresolved, Aiyuk’s focus is on contributing to the team this season. The 49ers will be hoping to secure Aiyuk’s long-term future with the team while knowing their star receiver is committed to playing in the upcoming season.
