Speculation surrounding Brandon Aiyuk continues to build, and one former college teammate wouldn't mind reuniting with the San Francisco 49ers wide receiver.
Quarterback Jayden Daniels recently sat down with Nate Tice of Yahoo Sports to discuss the offseason outlook for the Washington Commanders. After reaching the NFC Championship Game the previous year, Washington stumbled to just five wins in 2025.
Daniels, limited to seven games due to multiple injuries, made it clear he would like to see the organization add more offensive weapons.
Wide receiver Terry McLaurin remains a top target, but roster uncertainty looms. Deebo Samuel is scheduled to hit free agency after just one season in Washington, potentially leaving a void at receiver.
Daniels has some ideas on potential offseason targets.
"There's a couple of individuals that are out there," Daniels said. "Maybe somebody from Arizona State, in my past."
When asked whether that player resides on the West Coast, Daniels replied, "Yeah."
The connection is obvious. Daniels and Aiyuk were teammates at Arizona State in 2019, where they formed a productive quarterback-receiver duo. Daniels threw for nearly 3,000 yards that season, while Aiyuk posted 1,192 receiving yards and emerged as a dynamic playmaker.
"When that time comes, I'm hoping we can sign those types of players," Daniels added.
Talked to Jayden Daniels this week, including what type of player he might want to add to the Commanders offense this offseason.
Let's just say he's keeping an eye on a certain former Arizona State teammate that lives on the west coast. pic.twitter.com/GgfT1X6nWz
— Nate Tice (@Nate_Tice) February 8, 2026
Aiyuk's situation in San Francisco remains unsettled. The receiver is recovering from ACL and MCL injuries suffered in October 2024. While there was optimism about a potential return in 2025, reports later surfaced that Aiyuk had cut off communication with the team, signaling a fractured relationship.
The 49ers are widely expected to move on from Aiyuk this offseason, either via trade or release.
"The plan, in terms of the transaction, that will come in due time," general manager John Lynch said last month. "I think it's safe to say that he's played his last snap with the Niners. It's unfortunate—a situation that just went awry."
Until a decision is finalized, the Aiyuk saga will remain one of the 49ers' most significant offseason storylines.
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