Insider shares how 49ers’ Shanahan really feels about Aiyuk drama

San Francisco 49ers head coach Kyle Shanahan. Robert Kupbens-USA TODAY Sports

Insider shares how 49ers’ Kyle Shanahan really feels about Brandon Aiyuk drama

By Michael Gallagher | Last updated Aug 7, 2024 4:22 PM ET

With the San Francisco 49ers listening to trade offers for disgruntled receiver Brandon Aiyuk, it seems the team is at the end of its rope with him.

The two sides have gone back and forth regarding a contract extension this offseason, and it appears the 49ers are ready to wash their hands of the 26-year-old wideout and the unnecessary distraction he’s caused.

According to Mike Silver of the San Francisco Chronicle, Aiyuk’s behavior this offseason has rubbed many in the 49ers organization the wrong way, including head coach Kyle Shanahan.

“According to multiple sources, the head coach is bothered by Aiyuk’s behavior, from the receiver’s conspicuous “bro hugs” to his perceived brooding, and is willing to part ways [with him],” Silver wrote.

At seemingly every turn, Aiyuk has made life difficult for San Francisco.

He’s made headlines several times this offseason for varying reasons including telling claiming the 49ers told him they didn’t want him back, formally requesting to be traded and taking shots at the team on social media.

#49ers HC Kyle Shanahan on the situation with Brandon Aiyuk:

"It's been at this point for a little bit, so nothing really new to me. I mean you're always disappointed when you can't keep hold of all your players or it's not going exactly right. I don't like losing anybody, so…
— Nick Wagoner (@nwagoner) August 6, 2024

Then there’s Aiyuk’s hold in, where he’s ben at training camp every day to avoid being fined but refuses to participate in any on-field activities while the rest of his team put in work on the practice field.

“When a player holds out, as is currently the case with 11-time Pro Bowl left tackle Trent Williams, Shanahan can compartmentalize and ascribe his absence to the realities of the business,” Silver added. “The continued presence of Aiyuk, in all his emotionally charged splendor, seems to be triggering.”

Multiple reports indicate that the 49ers are actively negotiating with the Pittsburgh Steelers and Cleveland Browns about a potential Aiyuk deal, increasing the likelihood the All-Pro wideout will be wearing a new uniform in this upcoming season.

Michael Gallagher

Michael Gallagher is a longtime sports journalist based out of Nashville with a decade of experience covering college football, mixed martial arts and prep sports plus the NFL and NHL — specifically the Tennessee Titans and Nashville Predators. He’s covered several notable sporting events including an AFC Championship game, a Stanley Cup Final, an NHL All-Star Game and an NHL Stadium Series. Some of his past bylines can be found at the Nashville Scene, SB Nation, The Hockey News and Fox Sports Knoxville

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