With a divorce on the horizon in March, one source believes that San Francisco 49ers wide receiver Brandon Aiyuk could join the Washington Commanders via a trade this offseason. According to the report, the Commanders are one of the possibilities for Aiyuk, as the expectation is that the 49ers will either trade or cut him. This stems from an earlier report that San Francisco has voided guarantees in his contract since the team feels like Aiyuk has failed to fulfill his contractual obligations. Unfortunately for Aiyuk, he hasn’t lived up to the moment since signing a four-year, $120 million deal, which he held out for.
49ers, Commanders Could Link On Brandon Aiyuk Trade in 2026
Since suffering a season-ending injury in October 2024, Aiyuk has been on the “physically unable to perform” list. With that, it makes sense why the 49ers made their decision, but that could also signal that the team is preparing to move on without Aiyuk. Originally selected as a first-round pick, the former Arizona State product could reunite with Commanders starting quarterback Jayden Daniels.
It won’t be the first time that the 49ers, Commanders agree to a trade, with their latest being Brian Robinson Jr. joining San Francisco. Deebo Samuel will be a free agent in March, so if the Commanders can retain him on at least a two-year contract, the 49ers could be willing to trade Aiyuk to Washington at the right price. It depends on what works for the 49ers, on what they want in return, and it makes sense to bring Aiyuk to the Commanders to potentially revitalize his career with his former college teammate.
Other Possible 2026 Destinations
Carolina Panthers
At 7-6, the Carolina Panthers are shaping themselves to make a push for at least a wild-card spot. Quarterback Bryce Young has established himself as a reliable leader for this offense, even though there are a few inconsistency issues. Despite that, the Panthers made a strong case this season for what they could be in the next several years if they continue to strengthen the roster, including its pass offense. Rookie Tetairoa McMillan has fulfilled the expectations, and that means they could use another receiver will emerge as at least a No. 2 option.
If Aiyuk doesn’t join a contender in 2026, he might be better off signing with the Panthers, which would give him a fresh start and more of a spotlight other than McMillan.
Kansas City Chiefs
Meanwhile, the Chiefs will probably need to make a massive overhaul this upcoming offseason. They don’t have the dividends to sign the best free agent or make a massive trade, but they might be able to acquire Aiyuk on a low-stakes deal if he becomes available. Tyquan Thornton has established himself as a difference maker for Patrick Mahomes’ offense, but they need a superstar to keep up with Xavier Worthy and Rashee Rice.
Aiyuk has his injury issues, but the way they rejuvenated Thornton, they could do the same with Aiyuk.
Los Angeles Chargers
Quarterback Justin Herbert is in the top 5 in this league as long as the Chargers and head coach Jim Harbaugh continue to put him in the right moment. While they did him a disservice last postseason, they could change things around for the future. Veteran Keenan Allen is breaking out, but he’s getting old, and they need a true deep long-term threat. Ladd McConkey continues to get better each game, and the presence of Aiyuk gives Herbert another weapon to throw the football up in the air.
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