The San Francisco 49ers held their end-of-season press conference on Wednesday, with GM John Lynch and head coach Kyle Shanahan addressing a turbulent year marked by injuries, key departures, roster needs, and lingering rumors. Here’s a breakdown.
Brandon Aiyuk’s Future
In a definitive statement, John Lynch confirmed the end of Brandon Aiyuk’s tenure with the team. “It’s safe to say [Brandon Aiyuk] has played his last snap as a 49er,” Lynch said, putting an end to speculation about a potential return in 2026. The wide receiver’s relationship with the organization fractured over time, with communication eventually breaking down completely. Shanahan noted that Aiyuk stopped responding to calls, including from the head coach himself: “That’s something I’d never seen in 22 years of coaching.” When pressed on what caused the rift, Lynch admitted, “I wish I knew. I can’t help you there.”
Mac Jones as Backup QB
Despite trade interest, the 49ers appear committed to keeping Mac Jones as Brock Purdy’s backup. Shanahan emphasized that the team will listen to offers but expects Jones to return: “You always listen to people with trade offers, but we’re also not into getting rid of good players. And so I’d be very surprised if Mac wasn’t around us next year.” Given Purdy’s mid-season absence and the value of a reliable veteran arm, Jones’ role makes sense for stability. On the flip side, Shanahan’s comments could also be a negotiating tactic. Acting like the team isn’t interested in trading him could help drive a higher return if the right offer comes along.
Wide Receiver Outlook and Jauan Jennings
Lynch expressed strong admiration for Jauan Jennings’ playing style and passion: “We’d love to have him back. We’ll see how that goes.” Market value projections via Spotrac list Jennings at a three-year, $67.8 million deal (average annual $22.6 million), which could factor into extension talks. Shanahan highlighted the need for more speed overall, admitting the offense was “noticeably slower this year than in years past… We definitely need more speed out there.” The team will explore options, including trades, to address that, as Lynch said they’ll “look over anything to make the team better” when asked about adding a wide receiver.
Injury Updates
- Nick Bosa: Tracking well toward a return around training camp.
- Alfred Collins: Suffered a shoulder injury in the game against Seattle (“Shoulder went out in the game,” Shanahan said) and may require offseason surgery.
- Other notes: Nick Martin has cleared concussion protocol. Jake Tonges (plantar fascia) is expected to recover in about three weeks. Christian McCaffrey’s stinger is resolved, and he’s OK.
Defensive Coordinator Search
With Robert Saleh departing for the Titans, Shanahan pointed to Gus Bradley as the top internal candidate to replace him. The team expects Saleh to take some assistants with him to Tennessee.
Electrical Substation Rumor
Addressing fan and social media speculation tying the team’s injury woes to a nearby electrical substation, Lynch said the organization has proactively investigated: “We’ve reached out to anyone and everyone as to whether or not a study exists. We will look into it. We won’t turn a blind eye.” He noted that claims appear to have been “debunked” based on their outreach, but the team will continue to look into it.
Emerging Talent
Shanahan is “really excited” about RB Jordan James and envisions a bigger role in 2026: “He has a big opportunity this offseason to solidify a larger role” and could become a key part of the offense.