Matt Barrows expects Brandon Aiyuk to be released by the 49ers

Brandon Aiyuk’s return to the San Francisco 49ers could be brief. The wide receiver is back in the team’s orbit after a lengthy absence, but The Athletic’s Matt Barrows said he expects the relationship to end with Aiyuk’s release.

Barrows joined Sactown Sports’ Carmichael Dave and Jason Ross to discuss what could happen next. He said Aiyuk is expected to receive a two-week roster exemption, which would temporarily make him part of the team without requiring the 49ers to immediately decide whether to activate him.

“It’s the same deal where he’s part of the team but really not part of the team,” Barrows said. “And then they, you know, they cut him ultimately.”

JACKSONVILLE, FLORIDA – NOVEMBER 12: Brock Purdy #13 of the San Francisco 49ers celebrates a touchdown with Brandon Aiyuk #11 of the San Francisco 49ers during the first quarter at EverBank Stadium on November 12, 2023 in Jacksonville, Florida. (Photo by Mike Carlson/Getty Images)

More on Brandon Aiyuk

The question after a release, Barrows said, is whether another team would take a chance on Brandon Aiyuk.

He believes a team would be signing him with an eye toward 2027, rather than expecting an immediate contribution this season. Aiyuk has not played in more than two years, making his readiness and potential impact difficult to gauge.

“I don’t know if he would be ready to play in 2026,” Barrows said. “You’re picking him up because you think you can get him onto your practice field for a little bit, maybe in a game, but you’re picking him up for 2027.”

Barrows identified Washington as a possible landing spot, citing Aiyuk’s existing connections with the quarterback and general manager. But even if another team is interested, the 49ers’ decision may hinge on whether they see a path for Aiyuk to return to the field in San Francisco.

Asked whether Aiyuk could suit up for the 49ers again under the current coaching staff, Barrows said the chance was “pretty much a 0% chance.”

Brandon Aiyuk #11 of the San Francisco 49ers warms up before the game against the New England Patriots at Levi’s Stadium on September 29, 2024 in Santa Clara, California. (Photo by Thearon W. Henderson/Getty Images)

He suggested the players’ public comments about Aiyuk reflected Shanahan’s stance. While teammates may care about Aiyuk personally, Barrows said, “I don’t think anybody is, you know, eager to have him back on the roster.”

He pointed to the sense of betrayal that can come when a player steps away from his teammates, while noting that Aiyuk’s fellow receivers may still want to know he is doing well. Barrows said Aiyuk stopped his rehabilitation, and that the receiver has not publicly explained his reasons.

For the 49ers, the two-week exemption gives the organization time before making its next move. For Brandon Aiyuk, Barrows’ read is that a fresh start elsewhere is more likely than a return to the field in San Francisco.

Listen to The Carmichael Dave Show with Jason Ross from 6 – 10 a.m. PDT, Monday through Friday, on Sactown Sports 1140.

Upcoming San Francisco 49ers 2026 Schedule

• Sunday, November 15th – @ Dallas Cowboys – 1:25 pm PT
• Sunday, November 22nd – vs. Minnesota Vikings (Mexico City) – 5:20 pm PT
• Sunday, November 29th – vs. Seattle Seahawks – 1:25 pm PT
• Sunday, December 6th – @ New York Giants – 10:00 am PT
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