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Kyle Shanahan surprisingly leaves door open for possible Brandon Aiyuk 49ers return, with a catch
Kyle Shanahan has left open the possibility that Brandon Aiyuk could play for the San Francisco 49ers again, saying there are “no absolutes in life”. The coach said he was not concerned about the prospect of Aiyuk being traded or released and joining a rival, though he added that he had mentally moved on and had no expectations about Aiyuk’s reinstatement.
Aiyuk is expected to return to the 49ers’ facility on Friday, which would be his first time there since December 2025. He has been in a dispute with the club over his contract and previously said his relationship with Shanahan could not be repaired; after hiring agent Drew Rosenhaus, he is now reportedly willing to return. Aiyuk had also publicly criticised his former agent and 49ers general manager John Lynch.
In short
- Shanahan has not ruled out Aiyuk returning to San Francisco.
- Aiyuk is expected back at the team facility on Friday.
- The coach says he has moved on and has no expectations.
Steelman: both sides, in good faith
The strongest fair case each way — we don't pick a winner.
The case for
Aiyuk’s possible return could benefit both the player and the 49ers if they can rebuild enough trust to work together. Shanahan’s openness leaves room for a practical resolution, while Aiyuk’s reported willingness to return may offer a chance to move beyond the contract dispute and avoid losing a talented player.
The case against
The relationship may be too damaged for a return to serve either side well: Aiyuk previously said it could not be repaired, and public criticism of team figures may have weakened trust. The 49ers could reasonably prefer to move on or consider a trade, while Aiyuk may be better served by a fresh start elsewhere rather than re-entering a strained situation.