Brandon Aiyuk: If the 49ers cut me today, I’ll sign with the Commanders tomorrow

San Francisco 49ers wide receiver Brandon Aiyuk appears convinced that the Washington Commanders would be ready to sign him if the 49ers release him. Whether Aiyuk has any insight into Washington's plans remains unclear, but the disgruntled receiver has repeatedly hinted that the Commanders are his preferred landing spot.

A move to Washington would reunite Aiyuk with quarterback Jayden Daniels, his former Arizona State teammate and close friend.

Over the weekend, Aiyuk fueled speculation by posting a video in which he enthusiastically shouted, "Go, Commanders!"

On Tuesday, the receiver doubled down, sharing a video featuring an NFL football with the Commanders logo on it, and calling Washington "the best team in the world."

Not long afterward, Aiyuk responded to critics questioning his recent behavior.

"And if I'm crazy or if I'm cappin', tell them boys cut me today. And I'll sign with the Commanders tomorrow."

Aiyuk's recent social media activity has intensified scrutiny of his maturity and professionalism. At this point, many 49ers fans seem just as ready for a separation as the receiver himself.

The situation comes as Aiyuk attempts to return from the ACL and MCL tears he suffered in 2024. He has not played in an NFL game since the injury. During his rehabilitation, his actions reportedly led the 49ers to void his guaranteed money, a move that suggested significant behind-the-scenes friction between player and team.

The fallout ultimately led Aiyuk to cut off communication with the organization.

Questions about his behavior have also become a topic of discussion around the league.

"And now, there are questions about the way he's handled himself," ESPN NFL insider Adam Schefter said this week. "And so, I don't know that anybody's waiting to go sign Brandon Aiyuk."

Even All-Pro tight end George Kittle, who has frequently spoken highly of Aiyuk, seemed tired of the ongoing drama.

When asked whether Aiyuk would be a good fit with the Commanders, Kittle noted that he hasn't seen the receiver since around midseason last year before adding, "You guys have fun with that, I guess ... You have fun with all that comes with it."

If Aiyuk ultimately lands with another team, he will likely be looking at a one-year prove-it contract. Given his lengthy recovery from a major knee injury and the questions surrounding his conduct, teams may be hesitant to risk a significant commitment.