49ers Owner Leaves Door Open for Aiyuk's Return

Jed York says team is open to bringing back star WR Brandon Aiyuk or trading him for valuable assets.

Mar. 30, 2026 at 9:34pm by Ben Kaplan

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A cubist, geometric painting depicting a 49ers football game, with players and the field abstracted into colorful, angular shapes that capture the intensity and movement of the sport.The 49ers' roster decisions this offseason reflect their desire to remain a contender, even as the future of star receiver Brandon Aiyuk remains uncertain.San Francisco Today

San Francisco 49ers owner Jed York has not ruled out the possibility of wide receiver Brandon Aiyuk returning to the team, even as the franchise has reshaped its receiving corps this offseason. York acknowledged Aiyuk's talent and said 'anything is possible' regarding his future, while also noting the team could trade the 25-year-old if the right offer emerges.

Why it matters

Aiyuk has been a key part of the 49ers' offense in recent years, posting back-to-back 1,000-yard seasons in 2022 and 2023. However, injuries and missed time have created tension between the player and the franchise. York's comments suggest the team is weighing its options, potentially bringing Aiyuk back or trading him for valuable assets as it aims to remain a contender in the NFC.

The details

The 49ers have already signed veteran wide receivers Mike Evans and Christian Kirk in free agency, giving the team more stability and experience at the position. York said those additions could help 'absorb' Aiyuk if he returns, while also noting the team could trade him since he remains a 'valuable asset' around the league.

  • In the 2024 season, Aiyuk played only 7 games due to injuries.
  • Aiyuk missed the entire 2025 season, contributing to growing tension with the franchise.

The players

Jed York

The owner of the San Francisco 49ers.

Brandon Aiyuk

A 25-year-old wide receiver who has been a key part of the 49ers' offense in recent years, posting back-to-back 1,000-yard seasons in 2022 and 2023.

Mike Evans

A veteran wide receiver signed by the 49ers in free agency this offseason.

Christian Kirk

A veteran wide receiver signed by the 49ers in free agency this offseason.

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What they’re saying

“'BA is a very talented guy, would love to bring him back into the fold. And if not, I think he is a valuable asset other people would want.'”

— Jed York, 49ers Owner

“'I think anything is possible. Guys like Mike [Evans] and Christian [Kirk] are legit veteran people. That is a room that can absorb somebody that has had a tough go with our franchise for the last year or so.'”

— Jed York, 49ers Owner

What’s next

The 49ers will continue to evaluate Aiyuk's future with the team, weighing the possibility of bringing him back or trading him for valuable assets as they aim to remain a contender in the NFC.

The takeaway

Jed York's comments suggest the 49ers are keeping an open mind about Aiyuk's future, recognizing his talent while also acknowledging the team's flexibility to either reintegrate him or trade him for assets. This approach reflects the 49ers' broader goal of maintaining a strong roster and remaining a contender in the NFC.