San Francisco 49ers wide receiver Brandon Aiyuk’s efforts to join the Washington Commanders appear to have stalled. Aiyuk shared a video on social media, critiquing Commanders quarterback Jayden Daniels. He referred to Daniels as “5,” representing Daniels’ jersey number.
Aiyuk remarked, “’5′ gonna text me talking about some, ‘You’re on my team now. You follow my rules.’ Boy, I’m a grown man, boy. You gonna have to start running behind your momma and I might believe what you talking about. But until then, (No).'”
Aiyuk directly tagged Daniels in a separate post, saying, “Tf always so funny lil ,” urging him to “Turn your savage up.” In another post, Aiyuk expressed interest in teaming up, stating, “Let’s run it 5! Let’s see! Need you available all season and I’ll do the same.”
The 49ers have been exploring trade options for Aiyuk, who inked a four-year, $120 million extension with them in August 2024. General Manager John Lynch’s statement that Aiyuk is done, alongside Aiyuk’s public grievances, complicates matters despite his skills.
Aiyuk’s comments, referencing a desire to rejoin his Arizona State teammate, Daniels, continue. He began vocalizing his dissatisfaction with the 49ers earlier, sharing videos where he criticized the team for extending his contract and suggested they were hesitant to let him go due to his potential elsewhere.
The conflict with the 49ers lasted nearly a year after they voided the remaining guaranteed money in his extension. This occurred after Aiyuk failed to attend rehab for knee injuries sustained during the 2024 season. The 49ers placed him on the reserve/left team list in December when he stopped attending the facility.
Before his injury in 2024, Aiyuk recorded 24 catches for 374 yards. In 2023, he had a standout season with 1,342 yards, 75 receptions, and seven touchdowns, aiding the 49ers’ Super Bowl run.