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San Francisco 49ers tight end George Kittle took a comedic approach when questioned about wide receiver Brandon Aiyuk's anticipated comeback to the team's training facility. According to a post on X by Grant Cohn, Kittle quipped, "Plead the fifth, yeah. You can ask John. Or Kyle. Don't ask me. I'm a conspiracy guy."
Aiyuk, who last appeared in an NFL game in October 2024, is reportedly making strides toward a return. He sustained a torn ACL, MCL, and meniscus in his right knee during a matchup with the Kansas City Chiefs. On Wednesday, his agent, Drew Rosenhaus, confirmed that the 28-year-old had filed the necessary paperwork and intended to report to the 49ers' facility on Friday afternoon. Rosenhaus also stated that Aiyuk is fully healthy and eager to play, leaving the team to decide whether to reinstate him.
General Manager John Lynch described the situation as "fluid" and noted that the organization is collaborating with the NFL Management Council to find a mutually agreeable resolution, per ESPN. Head coach Kyle Shanahan, however, indicated that he has mentally moved on from Aiyuk and does not anticipate an immediate resolution.
Key Analysis
Aiyuk's relationship with the 49ers has soured significantly. He missed the entire 2025 season while recovering, and the team voided approximately $27 million in guaranteed contract money in July 2025, citing his failure to complete required rehabilitation sessions. The 49ers later placed him on the reserve/left squad list in December after he stopped reporting to the facility, and his absence from training camp in July led to his placement on the reserve/did not report list. Currently, Aiyuk is not being paid and does not occupy a spot on the active roster. The 49ers have previously explored trading him, and a release remains a likely outcome.
Originally reported by yahoo.