San Francisco 49ers wide receiver Brandon Aiyuk's participation in the initial weeks of the 2025 NFL season is uncertain as he continues to rehabilitate a significant knee injury sustained in October 2024.
Reports indicate that Aiyuk, a key offensive weapon for the Niners, could potentially miss the first four games if he begins the season on the Physically Unable to Perform (PUP) list.
Aiyuk suffered a torn ACL and MCL in a Week 7 game against the Kansas City Chiefs during the 2024 campaign. The severity of the injury immediately cast doubt on his readiness for the commencement of the 2025 season.
According to recent reports in May 2025, including insights from The Athletic's Matt Bowen, while Aiyuk is progressing in his recovery, the possibility of him being placed on the PUP list remains a realistic scenario. Such a designation would automatically sideline him for at least the first four weeks of the regular season.
Both 49ers Head Coach Kyle Shanahan and General Manager John Lynch have acknowledged Aiyuk's diligent rehabilitation efforts. While the team remains hopeful for his return as early as Week 1, they are also preparing for the contingency of his absence.
Shanahan has stated that it is "too early to tell" definitively but that his doctor indicated "a chance" for him to be ready for the season opener.
Aiyuk signed a lucrative four-year, $120 million contract extension prior to the 2024 season, and the team has since picked up a significant option bonus for 2025, signaling their long-term commitment. However, his immediate impact in 2025 will hinge on the final stages of his recovery.
Before the injury, Aiyuk had established himself as a premier receiver in the league, known for his route-running prowess and big-play ability.
Should Aiyuk be unavailable, the 49ers would likely lean more heavily on other receivers on their roster, including Jauan Jennings and 2024 draftee Ricky Pearsall, to carry the passing game alongside their other offensive stars.
The team is also reportedly considering options to bolster their receiving corps, potentially looking at veteran free agents.
The coming months, particularly training camp and the preseason, will be crucial in determining Aiyuk's official status for the start of the 2025 NFL season.
For now, a cloud of uncertainty hangs over his availability for the initial part of San Francisco's campaign.