The 49ers have opened training camp. Receiver Brandon Aiyuk remains on the reserve/left squad list.
He also remains determined to play for the Commanders.
Via The Athletic, Aiyuk made it even more clear in a Friday text message that he wants to sign with Washington.
Said Aiyuk: “[Adam Peters] and [Dan Quinn] quietly put together a SQAUD! [sic] I’m the final peice [sic] that will swing all the odds in our favor.”
The final piece can’t be put in place until the 49ers release him. Nothing will happen until Aiyuk files a petition for reinstatement with the league, the league grants it, and he shows up for work. At that point, the 49ers would have to choose between letting him practice (and risk owing him more than $26 million if he suffers a season-ending injury) or cutting him. Common sense suggests they’d cut him.
Common sense also points to Aiyuk filing the petition for reinstatement. He has vowed not to do it. Unless the 49ers choose to release him from the reserve/left squad list, nothing will happen.
There’s a chance nothing will happen if/when he’s released. While the Commanders clearly had interest at one point, he may have scared them away with social-media antics that included multiple skirmishes with Commanders quarterback Jayden Daniels.
At some point, life will go on. Rosters will be set. Games will be played. And the NFL train will roll ahead without Aiyuk.