San Francisco star receiver Brandon Aiyuk was notably absent from the start of practice on Wednesday, despite being cleared by team doctors to participate. This absence has intensified the ongoing contract dispute that has loomed over the 49ers since the offseason. Aiyuk has been holding out of training camp, seeking a long-term extension or a potential trade, with a back injury cited as the official reason by coach Kyle Shanahan.
Both Shanahan and general manager John Lynch confirmed that Aiyuk had received medical clearance to practice, but he was not present on the field during the open portion of practice. Aiyuk had managed to avoid fines during training camp by attending meetings and reporting to the team, but his failure to practice after being cleared could lead to potential disciplinary action.
According to the collective bargaining agreement, players can face fines for missing mandatory practices, with penalties escalating for repeated offenses. Suspension without pay is also a possibility for conduct deemed detrimental to the team. Shanahan acknowledged that punishment could be on the horizon if the situation remains unresolved.
Aiyuk, who was set to play on a fifth-year option worth approximately $14.1 million this season, is seeking a lucrative long-term deal or a trade to a team willing to meet his financial demands. The absence of Aiyuk adds to the 49ers' challenges, as they are also without All-Pro left tackle Trent Williams, who has been holding out for a new contract since the beginning of training camp.
Despite ongoing negotiations with Williams' camp, no breakthrough has been reached yet. Shanahan expressed optimism about resolving the situation but emphasized that his focus remains on preparing for upcoming games. The team is considering all options with Aiyuk, including a trade, extension, or playing out the season on his current deal.
On the injury front, safety Talanoa Hufanga returned to practice after a knee injury, while running back Elijah Mitchell will undergo season-ending surgery due to a hamstring injury. Rookie RB Isaac Guerendo also sustained a groin injury, and LG Aaron Banks is expected to return to practice next week. The team made roster moves, placing players on injured reserve and waiving others to bring back key personnel.
