BRANDON AIYUK HIRES DREW ROSENHAUS IN NFL RETURN BID

Brandon Aiyuk has hired agent Drew Rosenhaus as he seeks a return to the NFL, Adam Schefter of ESPN reported on Monday. The San Francisco 49ers wide receiver has been absent from competitive action for more than two years. NFL insider Jordan Schultz first reported that Aiyuk was close to appointing new representation. Rosenhaus confirmed his involvement to Schefter, saying he is "working on getting him back to work and playing again in the NFL." The 49ers placed Aiyuk on the reserve/left squad list in December 2025 after he stopped attending the team's facility.

The move removed Aiyuk from the 49ers' active roster and tolled his contract. He last played on 20 October 2024, injuring his ACL, MCL and meniscus against the Kansas City Chiefs. He had recorded 75 catches for 1,342 yards and seven touchdowns in 2023, earning second-team All-Pro recognition. His relationship with the 49ers deteriorated during his recovery, and the club voided around $27 million in guaranteed money in July 2025 after he missed required rehabilitation and check-in obligations. Aiyuk had signalled interest in joining the Washington Commanders to reunite with former Arizona State teammate Jayden Daniels, but the Commanders signed Stefon Diggs in August.

Aiyuk must now apply for reinstatement with the NFL before any move can proceed. The 49ers will then decide whether to trade or release him, as the club continues to hold his rights. General manager John Lynch has previously said San Francisco would consider trading Aiyuk, though the relationship between the two sides has deteriorated considerably. Aiyuk sat out the entire 2025 season, and Rosenhaus's appointment marks the clearest step yet in his effort to resume his NFL career.