Brandon Aiyuk has finally resolved his contract dispute with San Francisco by agreeing to a four-year, $120m contract extension with the 49ers on Thursday.
Sources familiar with the deal confirmed that the agreement was reached on Thursday after Aiyuk missed practice despite being cleared by team doctors. They spoke on the condition of anonymity as the deal had not been officially announced.
Aiyuk will receive $76m in guarantees as part of the deal.
The agreement was first reported by NFL Network.
Aiyuk had been holding out of practice all offseason due to a contract dispute, claiming to have a back injury. Despite being cleared by doctors, Aiyuk did not join practice, risking fines.
Earlier in the summer, Aiyuk had requested a trade but no team met the Niners’ demands and Aiyuk’s salary expectations, leading to no trade happening.
The resolution came just 11 days before the season opener against the New York Jets on 9 September.
This leaves the 49ers with one remaining holdout, All-Pro left tackle Trent Williams, who is seeking a new deal.
Aiyuk had been set to play on the fifth-year option worth about $14.1m this season before agreeing to the extension.
Last season, Aiyuk was a key part of San Francisco’s offense, forming a strong connection with quarterback Brock Purdy. Aiyuk had an impressive season with 75 catches, 1,375 yards, and seven touchdowns, earning second-team All-Pro honors.
With Aiyuk’s extension, the 49ers continue to reward their homegrown talent, having given megadeals to several players since 2020.
The 36-year-old Williams continues to stay away from the team as he seeks a new deal under his current contract.
Several offensive linemen have surpassed Williams’ average annual value since he signed his deal in 2021.
Cornerback Charvarius Ward acknowledged Williams’ leadership and absence from the team, noting the need for others to step up in his absence.
