Brandon Aiyuk’s potential return to the San Francisco 49ers has become a talking point again, but George Kittle isn’t ready to assume the wide receiver will be welcomed back into the team’s facility.
The former first-round pick has been away from game action since tearing up his right knee against the Kansas City Chiefs in Week 7 of the 2024 season. His situation in San Francisco has since taken a turn for the worse, with the team reportedly growing frustrated after he failed to attend required rehab sessions and check-ins during the 2025 offseason.
Thanks for the submission!
That breakdown in communication ultimately led the Niners to void around $27 million in guaranteed money on his contract and place him on the reserve/left squad list after he stopped showing up at the facility.
•
Now, Aiyuk’s new agent, Drew Rosenhaus, is reportedly working to secure his reinstatement and arrange a return to practice. However, Kittle appeared uncertain about whether the organization would allow that to happen.
Looking to predict NFL playoff Scenarios? Try our NFL Playoff Predictor for real-time simulations and stay ahead of the game!
Asked on Thursday if he was excited about the prospect of seeing Aiyuk again, the veteran tight end responded:
“Do you think he gets in the facility?” Kittle asked back. “I plead the fifth. You can ask (general manager) John (Lynch) or (head coach) Kyle (Shanahan). Don’t ask me. I’m a conspiracy guy.”
George Kittle‘s doubts are not surprising considering how Aiyuk has handled his situation in recent months. The receiver had reportedly been seeking a release from the 49ers after making little effort to rejoin the team. Now, after months of apparent distance from the organization, he wants another opportunity to return to practice.
A comeback in San Francisco still seems like a long shot, but the door hasn’t been completely closed. The 49ers could reinstate Brandon Aiyuk, release him or attempt to find a trade partner.
49ers GM John Lynch leaves door open for Brandon Aiyuk’s return to the roster
The possibility of Brandon Aiyuk returning to the 49ers has gained some momentum after general manager John Lynch indicated that the team is willing to explore a potential resolution with the wide receiver.
Speaking on KNBR on Thursday, Lynch was careful not to make any promises but left the door open for an agreement that could benefit both sides.
“Look, I think the way I’ll characterize it, number one, we’ve got a 6-1 football team that we think has really got a shot at this thing this year,” Lynch said. “So our focus is going to remain on this team.
“It’s fluid. I’m going to kind of leave it at that because I’ve been recommended to do so, and I think it’s the right thing to do. We’ll look for a pathway for both sides here that works. Yeah, of course. I think everything’s possible. I will say this, we’ve worked with Drew (Rosenhaus) a lot. Drew is a good guy to deal with. He’s reasonable. He’s got integrity.”
The timing is interesting given the team’s current injury problems at receiver. Mike Evans is dealing with Achilles tendinitis, Deebo Samuel Sr. has a hamstring issue, and De’Zhaun Stribling is dealing with an ankle injury.
Despite the need for reinforcements, Aiyuk’s return to the active roster remains uncertain. A release or trade still appears to be a more likely outcome, but Lynch’s comments suggest the Niners haven’t entirely shut the door on bringing him back.
Edited by Habib Timileyin
