The general manager of the Washington Commanders, Adam Peters, didn’t mention Brandon Aiyuk by name during a press conference on Tuesday, but it was pretty clear who he was referring to.
JP Finlay from NBC 4 asked Peters about how players’ social media activities might impact the team’s image. Peters chose his words carefully to sidestep directly mentioning the dissatisfied receiver, who is still under contract with the San Francisco 49ers, thereby avoiding any hints of tampering.
“That’s a roundabout question,” he said, chuckling a bit.
“We will consider everything, JP,” Peters went on. He mentioned, “It’s important we find a player who aligns with our locker room dynamics, culture, and overall atmosphere.”
Peters clarified that social media isn’t typically a major consideration in their decision-making process. They usually start by reviewing game film and gathering insights from the player’s past teams and teammates regarding their character.
Ironically, Peters is no stranger to Aiyuk’s skills; he worked in the player personnel department for the 49ers from 2017 to 2023 and was involved in Aiyuk’s draft in 2020.
This whole situation’s timing is particularly interesting. The U.S. government is weighing whether the current receiving corps needs bolstering. ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler reported that coaches plan to evaluate the position closer to training camp.
Aiyuk certainly has the talent to be a fit, but, well, his online activity makes things a bit tricky.
Aiyuk’s recent Instagram posts were seen by some as critiques of head coach Kyle Shanahan, particularly following a devastating car accident news. This is just the latest in a string of public criticisms aimed at the 49ers.
His social media behavior may have also impacted trade prospects. Adam Schefter mentioned that a possible trade with Washington “fell off track.” Aiyuk didn’t help his case by calling out Commanders quarterback Jaden Daniels, who was his teammate at Arizona State, and then claiming he would be the missing piece the team needs.
Currently, Aiyuk is on the 49ers’ reserve/left team list and will have to seek reinstatement before they can consider releasing or trading him.
As training camp evaluations are taking place, it won’t be long before the team’s intentions regarding another receiver, and Aiyuk’s candidacy specifically, become clearer.
