San Francisco 49ers wide receiver Brandon Aiyuk is poised to make his return to the field, having recently filed for reinstatement. According to ESPN, Aiyuk hired agent Drew Rosenhaus and will report to the 49ers' facilities on Friday.

Rosenhaus stated, "Brandon is healthy and ready to get back on the field." If reinstated, the 49ers could consider trading or releasing him. General manager John Lynch previously indicated that it was likely Aiyuk had played his last snap with the team, as they seek compensation for their two-year dilemma.

This saga began when Aiyuk tore his ACL in October 2024, leading to his placement on the PUP list before the 2025 season. Thirteen months post-injury, the 49ers voided his $27 million salary guarantees for 2026, citing Aiyuk's lack of communication and adherence to his rehab schedule. Subsequently, he was placed on the reserve/left squad list in December.

During the offseason, Aiyuk criticized the 49ers on social media and hinted at a move to the Washington Commanders, where he hoped to reunite with college quarterback Jayden Daniels. However, as the 49ers still held his rights, Aiyuk needed to file for reinstatement to facilitate any potential trade.

In 2023, Aiyuk emerged as one of the NFL's top wide receivers, recording 75 receptions for 1,342 yards and seven touchdowns, contributing to his team's run to Super Bowl LVIII. His impressive stats included a 3.1 yards per route run average, ranking third in the league, and leading with 81.3% of his receptions resulting in a first down or touchdown.

The following offseason, Aiyuk executed a "hold-in" during training camp, ultimately securing a four-year, $120 million extension. However, his promising 2024 season was cut short after just seven games due to his ACL injury.