San Francisco 49ers’ wide receiver, Brandon Aiyuk, is anticipated to join practice for the first time this summer, revealing no progress towards sealing a long-term contract with the team. Coach Kyle Shanahan mentioned on Wednesday before the team’s practice session, following the reduction of the squad to 53 players, that he hoped to see Aiyuk on the field after a prolonged contract dispute.
Aiyuk chose to skip the entire offseason activities in pursuit of a lucrative extension or potentially a trade to a team willing to meet his financial demands. Despite reporting to training camp in July to avoid penalties, he has been reluctant to practice without a contract in place, with a cited back injury being the official reason provided by Shanahan.
Having received clearance from team doctors, Aiyuk could face penalties or other consequences if he continues to abstain from practice. He was initially slated to play under the fifth-year option valued at approximately $14.1 million for this season, while aiming for a substantial long-term agreement with the 49ers.
A standout performer in the team’s offense last season, Aiyuk established a strong connection with quarterback Brock Purdy, amassing 75 receptions and a career-best 1,375 yards with seven touchdowns, culminating in second-team All-Pro recognition.
During recent practice sessions, safety Talanoa Hufanga engaged in individual drills following a knee injury that prematurely ended his previous season. Meanwhile, running back Elijah Mitchell sustained a re-injury to his hamstring and is set to undergo season-ending surgery. Rookie running back Isaac Guerendo also faced a groin issue, leading to his absence from practice this week. Left guard Aaron Banks, recovering from a broken pinky, is expected to return to practice next week and is likely to be ready for the season opener.