Brandon Aiyuk Must Seek League Reinstatement Before Requesting Release
San Francisco 49ers wide receiver Brandon Aiyuk remains on the reserve/left squad list and must apply for reinstatement with the NFL before he can pursue a release and sign with another team.
San Francisco wide receiver Brandon Aiyuk is still listed on the 49ers' reserve/left squad roster. Under league rules, he is required to submit a petition for reinstatement before he can be released and negotiate with another club, such as the Washington Commanders.
If reinstated, Aiyuk could attend the 49ers' training camp and request his release, a move the team might consider to avoid the risk of a season-ending injury that would obligate it to pay his full 2026 salary, estimated at more than $26 million, none of which is currently guaranteed.
The process involves Aiyuk filing the reinstatement request with the NFL; once approved, he can report to camp and discuss his contract status with the 49ers.
"The league’s reinstatement procedure must be followed before any roster move can be made," a league spokesperson said.
Analysts note that the steps are procedural and could be completed quickly, but the outcome will depend on the team's assessment of roster needs and financial considerations.