While San Francisco 49ers running back Christian McCaffrey reported to the team today after signing a two-year contract extension, wide receiver Brandon Aiyuk remains absent. NFL insider Ian Rapoport was the first to report the news, noting that Aiyuk is now subject to fines. The player's absence is not entirely unexpected, as Aiyuk is awaiting a contract extension and hopes to become one of the highest-paid receivers in the NFL.
#49ers WR Brandon Aiyuk has not reported to mandatory minicamp, as he seeks a new contract. He is subject to fines. The second holdout of the day, along with #Cowboys WR CeeDee Lamb.
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) June 4, 2024
Both players skipped the voluntary portion of the offseason program, including organized team activities (OTAs).
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San Francisco is scheduled to hold two practices through tomorrow, with the first being today at 10:40 a.m. PT. Head coach Kyle Shanahan is expected to speak to reporters after today's practice, around noon. Defensive coordinator Nick Sorensen will address the media tomorrow.
Earlier reports indicate that Aiyuk and the 49ers remain far apart in the negotiation process. In March, Aiyuk stated, "I'm trying to get what I deserve. ... We got professionals working on both sides, so hopefully, we can come to a professional agreement to continue playing professional football."
Aiyuk, the No. 25 overall pick in 2020, led the team with a career-high 1,342 receiving yards this past season, marking his second consecutive season surpassing 1,000 receiving yards. His seven receiving touchdowns tied with McCaffrey and Deebo Samuel for the most among 49ers players last season.
Aiyuk is the first 49ers wide receiver to record back-to-back 1,000-yard receiving seasons since Anquan Boldin did so in 2013 and 2014, and the first 49ers player to accomplish the feat since tight end George Kittle in 2018 and 2019.
Tomorrow's practice is also scheduled for 10:40 a.m. PT. After that, the team will break until training camp, which typically kicks off in the latter half of July.