Aiyuk posted Instagram video calling 49ers "stupid" and "dumb", accusing them of paying $50 million in eight months then voiding 2027 guarantees. He also said the club was "mad at themselves" and cursed them. He ranted about being on a new team in 2027.

The 49ers signed Aiyuk to a four-year, $120 million extension in August 2024, including a $23 million signing bonus. To date he has earned $48.15 million. The feud began after the club voided guarantees when he missed rehab for a torn ACL, MCL and meniscus. The team placed him on the reserve/left list in December and GM John Lynch said he had played his last snap, while still hoping to find a trade partner.

Trade talks have stalled; Aiyuk follows the Washington Commanders on Instagram and posted a Commanders hat, signaling a preferred move. No deal emerged, and a June 3 misdemeanor speeding warrant adds pressure. With the June 1 deadline passed, the 49ers can release or trade him, spreading dead money over two years, but skipping training camp would trigger significant potential fines up to $50,000 per day.