The San Francisco 49ers are 9-4 after a myriad of brutal injuries plaguing their season. From Fred Warner and Nick Bosa to the extended absences of Ricky Pearsall and Brock Purdy, it's been an impressive performance to get to 9-4.
But one of the biggest storylines from this season has been the status of Brandon Aiyuk. After a season-ending injury in 2024, Aiyuk hasn't returned to the team. Now in Week 15 of the 2025 season, how are those inside the 49ers organization feeling about Aiyuk?
Well, according to Dianna Russini of The Athletic, after holding out hope that Aiyuk could return at the end of this season, those within the 49ers organization have reportedly given up hope.
49ers org gives up hope on potential Brandon Aiyuk return
"The 49ers have been holding out hope that Aiyuk would show up, ready to practice." Russini writes. "However, their optimism seems to have run out. I expect a resolution sooner rather than later."
Aiyuk already wasn't likely to play for the 49ers beyond the 2025 season, with his 2026 guarantees waived by the 49ers, but he still could've suited up for San Francisco this season.
But, this report from Russini indicates that the 49ers have essentially thrown in the towel on a potential Aiyuk return this season. George Kittle said earlier this week, "At this point, it doesn't seem like he's coming back."
That sentiment is likely true, and with Aiyuk unlikely to return this season, his 49ers career is all but over. The 27-year-old's time in San Francisco is coming to an end.
More: 49ers linked to Texas A&M, Louisville WRs as Brandon Aiyuk replacements
Over the five seasons he played with the 49ers before his 2024 injury and subsequent absence from the team, Aiyuk recorded 4,305 receiving yards on 294 receptions and 25 touchdowns across 69 games since 2020.
Aiyuk's time in San Francisco is over, and he will now look to join another team this offseason. The Washington Commanders are a likely destination to reunite with Jayden Daniels.
But, regardless of what his future entails, it's not likely to be with the 49ers. They've given up hope on Aiyuk returning to finish the 2025 season, as Aiyuk continues to be absent from the team amid a fallout between the two sides.
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- 49ers reportedly wanted George Pickens in 2024 Brandon Aiyuk trade