Aiyuk Taps Rosenhaus After 49ers Rejection

Brandon Aiyuk has hired Drew Rosenhaus to manage his return to the NFL. The 28-year-old wide receiver officially signed with the agent on Monday, aiming to restart his career after a falling out with the San Francisco 49ers.

Aiyuk has not played a single down since suffering a knee injury against the Kansas City Chiefs in October 2024. The dispute with the 49ers intensified in July 2025 when the team voided approximately $27 million in contract guarantees. This move followed his absence from mandatory rehab sessions.

The situation deteriorated over the summer as Aiyuk took his complaints to social media. He demanded a trade and publicly lobbied to join the Washington Commanders to play alongside Jayden Daniels. He also faced an arrest warrant in June 2026 after posting video of himself running a 40-yard dash at 104 mph outside Levi's Stadium.

The 49ers front office, led by John Lynch and Kyle Shanahan, indicated the relationship was over. In September 2026, Shanahan answered a question about a potential reunion with the word "No." Washington also closed its doors on Aiyuk by signing Stefon Diggs.

Before any new deal can be finalized, Aiyuk requires formal reinstatement from the league. This step is necessary for the 49ers to officially cut or trade him. Rosenhaus is known for representing players with public conflicts, including Terrell Owens and Antonio Brown.

Aiyuk recorded 1,342 receiving yards in the 2023 season. However, he has been away from contact football for two full seasons. The 49ers currently hold his rights without paying him a salary. Rosenhaus will now work to navigate the reinstatement process and find a new team.

The agent previously represented Johnny Manziel before ending their partnership over rehab terms. Aiyuk's case involves cleaning up a reputation damaged by missed sessions and public disputes. The hiring marks a new phase in his effort to rejoin an active NFL roster.