Brandon Aiyuk’s time with the San Francisco 49ers appears to be coming to an unceremonious end. While his tenure in the Bay Area may have run its course, that doesn’t mean NFL teams won’t come calling — especially if his contract is reworked or he becomes available outright.

One potential suitor? The Washington Commanders.

With Deebo Samuel expected to hit free agency this offseason, Washington could be left with a significant void opposite Terry McLaurin. That opening, combined with the Commanders’ long-term outlook, makes them an intriguing landing spot for Aiyuk.

Washington entered 2024 with momentum, but the 2025 season quickly unraveled. Injuries — most notably to young quarterback Jayden Daniels — derailed the team’s progress and exposed weaknesses across the roster. As the franchise eyes a rebound in 2026, adding a high-upside receiver could be a priority.

Aiyuk certainly comes with risk, but the upside is undeniable. ESPN’s Bill Barnwell points out that Washington has more than a few factors working in its favor if it decides to explore a deal.

“One obvious landing spot is Washington, where the Commanders employ former 49ers executive Adam Peters and have an opening in their lineup at wide receiver with Deebo Samuel hitting free agency,” Barnwell wrote. “Aiyuk was Jayden Daniels’ teammate at Arizona State, too.”

That familiarity could ease the transition — but the price tag remains a major obstacle.

Without any contract changes, Aiyuk is owed $27 million in 2026. Even for a team benefiting from a quarterback on a rookie deal, that’s a steep commitment for a receiver who hasn’t played since the middle of the 2024 season.

Barnwell also questions how much trade value Aiyuk still carries.

“The 49ers were in position to land a second-round pick for him in 2024,” Barnwell noted. “But it would be surprising if they were able to get anything more than a conditional pick now.”

In short, teams may hesitate to absorb such a massive salary, even if future guarantees aren’t locked in. That reality could force San Francisco to either renegotiate or settle for a modest return.

Whether the Commanders ultimately pursue Aiyuk or not, Barnwell’s analysis signals something clear: Washington is likely to be active in the wide receiver market this offseason. With Deebo Samuel potentially on his way out, a major addition could be on the horizon as the franchise looks to reset and reemerge as a contender.