Overview
- John Lynch, who told reporters Saturday "We're available, give us a call," also said a release is "not anytime soon."
- No deal surfaced during the 2026 draft, following Saturday's rounds that ended with Aiyuk still on the roster as Washington shows interest but prefers a release, per NFL Network's Ian Rapoport.
- Aiyuk tore an ACL and MCL in October 2024, missed 2025, and lost guarantees after skipping team-run rehab, leaving a reported $27 million 2026 salary that is hard to move without medical clarity.
- San Francisco has restocked at receiver with Mike Evans, Christian Kirk, and second-round pick De’Zhaun Stribling, which points to a business decision on timing and value rather than on-field need.
- The stalemate could stretch into late summer as health updates and a pre-September option deadline shape leverage, with Rapoport expecting Washington to be the landing spot if he is released.