Brandon Aiyuk has hired NFL agent Drew Rosenhaus to pursue reinstatement and a potential return to the league. The 49ers wide receiver has not played since suffering a knee injury in October 2024 and has been absent from the team’s active roster since July 2025.
Aiyuk’s reinstatement is the first necessary step for any NFL return, as the 49ers still hold his rights. Rosenhaus confirmed he is working to facilitate Aiyuk’s return to playing status.
Aiyuk’s tenure with the 49ers has been marked by contract disputes and missed obligations. In July 2025, San Francisco voided $27 million in contract guarantees after Aiyuk skipped mandatory rehab sessions. He later stopped reporting to the team, leading to his placement on the reserve/left squad and reserve/did not report lists. Aiyuk publicly campaigned for a trade or release, targeting a reunion with former Arizona State teammate Jayden Daniels in Washington, but the team did not accommodate his requests.
The 49ers have repeatedly indicated Aiyuk is not part of their plans. In September 2026, head coach Kyle Shanahan stated only the word “No” when asked if injuries might force a reunion. Washington also moved on, signing Stefon Diggs and closing the door on Aiyuk’s potential return there.
Aiyuk’s career statistics include 294 catches for 4,305 yards and 25 touchdowns over 69 games. His 2022 and 2023 seasons both surpassed 1,000 receiving yards, but his 2024 season ended prematurely due to the ACL and MCL tear. Off the field, Aiyuk faced an arrest warrant in June 2026 after posting a video of himself driving 104 mph in a 40 mph zone near Levi’s Stadium.
For Aiyuk to resume his career, the NFL must formally reinstate him before San Francisco can proceed with a trade or release. Rosenhaus’ involvement signals a strategic effort to navigate the reinstatement process and explore potential opportunities.