The Ringer’s Tom Pelissero reports Brandon Aiyuk owes the 49ers “roughly $13 million in bonus forfeiture,” which could delay his return.

06 November 2026

Pelissero calls this a “potential complication in [Aiyuk’s] efforts to secure his release by reporting to the facility Friday.” While it’s possible both sides reach a deal for Aiyuk to pay back that money, which would make this a non-issue, Pelissero said this could also end up going to arbitration, which may delay things. Aiyuk is scheduled to report to the 49ers’ facilities today, so we could have our answer in the next few hours about when this situation is resolved and Aiyuk has been granted his release. Aiyuk recently hired Drew Rosenhaus with the hopes of being reinstated into the league and with a new team soon. The 28-year-old last played in 2024.