Brandon Aiyuk declares he will join Washington Commanders if 49ers release him
San Francisco 49ers wide receiver Brandon Aiyuk has stated he will immediately sign with the Washington Commanders if his current team releases him.
The player posted a video to social media on Wednesday declaring his intention to move to the nation’s capital.
It follows a series of posts where the disgruntled pass-catcher shouted his support for Washington and held an NFL football bearing the franchise logo.
And if I’m crazy or if I’m cappin’, tell them boys cut me today. And I’ll sign with the Commanders tomorrow.
Stand-off in San Francisco
The former All-Pro remains stuck in professional limbo while formally under contract with San Francisco.
General manager John Lynch stated in January that the 26-year-old had likely taken his final snap for the Californian franchise.
However, the organisation has retained his rights in the hope of securing a trade partner before veterans report to training camp on 25 July.
Because he remains under contract, Washington cannot publicly express interest without violating the NFL’s strict tampering rules.
Injury dispute and contract void
Relations between the receiver and his employers broke down entirely following a severe knee injury last year.
Despite signing a lucrative four-year extension worth $120m (£93m) in August 2024, the franchise voided his remaining guaranteed money.
The team took this drastic action after the wideout failed to participate in mandatory rehabilitation sessions for a torn ACL, MCL and meniscus.
He was subsequently placed on the reserve/left team list in December after refusing to attend the team facility.
Arizona State reunion
A potential move to Washington would reunite the unsettled star with highly-rated quarterback Jayden Daniels.
The pair formed a close friendship during their time as collegiate team-mates at Arizona State.
Before his devastating knee injury, the San Francisco star had emerged as one of the NFL’s most dangerous offensive weapons, recording 1,342 receiving yards in 2023.