Key Highlights
- In over a decade with the company, Nick has led ESPN's coverage of the Niners' 2019 and 2023 Super Bowl run, Colin Kaepernick's protest, the Rams making Michael Sam the first openly gay player drafted to the NFL, Sam's subsequent pursuit of a roster spot and the team's relocation and stadium saga. Follow on XEmailPrintOpen Extended ReactionsSANTA CLARA, Calif.
- Although the San Francisco 49ers publicly expressed some hope that receiver Brandon Aiyuk would return this season, that optimism ran out Saturday when the team moved Aiyuk to the reserve/left team list. That designation, which is generally used for players who intend either to retire or to temporarily step away from football, means Aiyuk is ineligible to play for the 49ers in 2025.
- Aiyuk, who has been recovering from a torn ACL, MCL and meniscus in his right knee, has not been seen around the facility in recent weeks, and his placement on the list suggests he hasn't been around the team or participating in rehab sessions. It also is likely the next step toward an offseason divorce between the Niners and Aiyuk.
- On Thursday, Niners tight end George Kittle hinted that Aiyuk wasn't likely to be back."At this point, it doesn't seem like he's coming back," Kittle said.
- "I try my best to not even think about it because I love Brandon.