Brandon Aiyuk Injury Update
Brandon Aiyuk is still sidelined with the devastating right knee injury he suffered in October 2024, and the latest updates from the 49ers’ front office make it clear he has not been medically cleared and has yet to even start a practice window in 2025. NFL (@NFL) shared on X that 49ers WR Brandon Aiyuk is out for the season with a torn ACL and MCL, according to @rapsheet.
The injury was brutal: a torn ACL, MCL, and meniscus in his right knee against the Chiefs, the kind of multi‑ligament damage that almost always turns into a long, complicated rehab rather than a neat “9‑month timeline” story. On top of that, the team voided his 2026 contract guarantees in July after frustration over missed rehab sessions, which turned what should have been a straight‑line comeback into a mix of medical and business drama.
When Will Brandon Aiyuk Return?
There is currently no firm return date for Brandon Aiyuk, and both GM John Lynch and coach Kyle Shanahan have openly admitted they are only “hopeful” he might play this season, not confident. Aiyuk remains on the physically unable to perform list; the 49ers have not opened his 21‑day practice window, and with only four regular‑season games plus a possible playoff run left, time is very close to running out. 49ers Webzone (@49erswebzone) shared on X that Kyle Shanahan, on @KNBR, said he's still hopeful Brandon Aiyuk can return this season but isn't counting on it, raising questions about the #49ers and the receiver's future.
Early in the year, October was floated as a possible comeback window, but that projection has long passed; now, most national reports frame any 2025 snaps as unlikely, especially given that he has been away from live football for more than 13 months.
Brandon Aiyuk Outlook
Brandon Aiyuk’s short‑term outlook for fantasy managers and 49ers fans is grim, with most analysts essentially writing off a 2025 on‑field contribution and focusing instead on what happens to his contract and future team. With his guarantees voided and the 49ers getting solid production from other weapons in a 9–4 season, several outlets expect San Francisco to explore a trade or even a postseason exit if they can find a partner willing to take on most of his remaining salary.
Long term, the talent is still there this is a former All‑Pro‑level route runner but the combination of a major knee reconstruction, a long layoff, and a strained relationship with the team means the more realistic Brandon Aiyuk outlook is a full reset: finish rehab carefully, likely move organizations, and then try to rebuild value in 2026 rather than forcing a rushed cameo this year.
Disclaimer
This Brandon Aiyuk injury update and return timeline is based on publicly available reports, team comments, and expert analysis and may change as new medical information appears. It is intended for general informational and fan purposes only, not as medical advice, betting guidance, or an official statement from Brandon Aiyuk or the San Francisco 49ers.
