Brandon Aiyuk’s Trade Attempts and Discontent with the 49ers

San Francisco 49ers wide receiver Brandon Aiyuk sought a trade to the Washington Commanders, but recent events suggest those efforts have stalled. Aiyuk posted a video on social media addressing Commanders quarterback Jayden Daniels. He mentioned Daniels by his jersey number, “5.”

Aiyuk shared his thoughts in the video, saying, “‘5’ gonna text me talking about some, ‘You’re on my team now. You follow my rules.’ Boy, I’m a grown a– man, boy. You gonna have to start running behind your momma and I might believe what you talking about. But until then, (No).” He also tagged Daniels in another post and urged him to “turn your savage up.”

Despite expressing interest in joining Daniels, Aiyuk’s trade prospects appear complicated. He signed a four-year, $120 million extension with the 49ers in August 2024, yet he has expressed dissatisfaction with the team. The 49ers’ management, including general manager John Lynch, has indicated Aiyuk’s future may not lie with them, citing his public frustrations.

Aiyuk was vocal about his frustration, calling the team “dumb” and “stupid” for extending his contract. He believes the team fears his potential performance with other teams. Tensions have persisted following the 49ers voiding his extension’s guaranteed money due to his absence from rehab sessions for injuries sustained in 2024. After these events, Aiyuk was placed on the reserve/left team list in December.

Previously, Aiyuk displayed impressive performance with the 49ers. Before injuries in 2024, he recorded 374 yards across 24 catches. In 2023, he had a breakthrough season with 1,342 yards and seven touchdowns, steering the team to the Super Bowl.