49ers GM John Lynch Confirms Brandon Aiyuk Remains on Left Squad Designation

General manager John Lynch confirmed Brandon Aiyuk is not on the 90-man roster as the receiver remains on the reserve/left team list.

SANTA CLARA, Calif. -- San Francisco 49ers general manager John Lynch confirmed Saturday that wide receiver Brandon Aiyuk is currently under a "left squad designation," removing him from the team's 90-man roster. Aiyuk has not participated in team activities since Week 7 of the 2024 season, when he suffered a torn ACL, MCL, and meniscus in his right knee. The receiver landed on the reserve/left team list in December after ceasing communication and skipping rehabilitation sessions at the team facility. Lynch stated the organization is shifting its focus toward the players present at training camp while wishing Aiyuk and his family well.

To change his current status, Aiyuk must formally apply to the NFL for reinstatement. If the league grants this request, he could potentially force a release by reporting to camp, which would require the Niners to count him against both the 90-man roster limit and the salary cap. To date, the receiver has not initiated these steps. Despite Lynch previously stating at the end of last season that Aiyuk had played his final snaps for San Francisco, the team retained him through the offseason in an unsuccessful attempt to facilitate a trade.

Aiyuk Targets Washington and October Return

Brandon Aiyuk has publicly expressed his desire to join the Washington Commanders, recently claiming he purchased a $10 million home in Loudoun County, Virginia. This property is located near the Commanders' Ashburn-based practice facility. On social media, Aiyuk has frequently appeared in Washington apparel and highlighted his relationship with Commanders quarterback Jayden Daniels. He explicitly stated he would not return to the 49ers' building unless it is for the October 19 matchup when San Francisco hosts Washington at Levi’s Stadium.

Addressing rumors of a late June video where Aiyuk suggested the GM made an unwanted visit to his residence, Lynch declined to provide specific details regarding the encounter. He noted that the well-being of any player remains at the forefront of the organization's thoughts. While Aiyuk continues his social media campaign to move to the NFC East, it remains unconfirmed whether the Commanders have any formal interest in signing the veteran wideout.

Kittle and Three Others Placed on PUP List

Lynch also announced that four players will begin training camp on the active physically unable to perform (PUP) list. Tight end George Kittle is recovering from a right Achilles tear suffered in January. Kittle is targeting a return for the September 10 season opener against the Los Angeles Rams, a game scheduled to take place in Melbourne, Australia. Lynch described Kittle’s progress as "tremendous" and noted the tight end is doing everything possible to be available for Week 1.

Joining Kittle on the PUP list are defensive tackle Alfred Collins, defensive end Mykel Williams, and running back Isaac Guerendo. Collins is dealing with a shoulder injury but could potentially be activated for the second window of practices late next week if he meets specific rehab markers. Williams is recovering from an ACL injury and, while aiming for a Week 1 return, is expected to miss a significant portion of training camp. Guerendo is currently sidelined with a pectoral injury.

Roster Logistics and Reinstatement Rules

Because Aiyuk remains on the "left team" list, he does not currently occupy one of the 90 available roster spots. The 49ers are proceeding with their summer schedule under the assumption that he will not be involved in the immediate future. Lynch emphasized that he has nothing further to add regarding the estranged receiver's situation, choosing to prioritize the health and progress of the athletes currently in Santa Clara. The team’s focus remains on the rehab timelines for Kittle and Williams as they prepare for the international opener in Australia.