After nearly a year and a half of missed rehabs, social media tirades, and off-the-rocker shenanigans, former San Francisco 49ers wideout Brandon Aiyuk has decided that now is as good a time as any to make amends. Sort of.
Since the pass catcher has officially filed reinstatement papers, the 49ers are in a position to do one of three things: trade him, release him, or figure out some way to put the past behind them and re-integrate him into the offense.
With the latter being the most unlikely, the Niners will presumably make some calls to see if they can get anything out of the fallen star, but there is no guarantee any team would want to ride that ride given all San Francisco has been through.
If a release ends up being the only realistic option, there are three teams Aiyuk could sign to that would give him the opportunity to exact his revenge. Not only are they all in need of a wide receiver, but they all present a legitimate threat to the 49ers' Super Bowl hopes and dreams.
1. Seattle Seahawks
The Seahawks have become extremely one-dimensional on offense over the past few weeks. They are likely regretting letting Kenneth Walker "walk" in free agency, as they are rushing for just 3.9 yards per carry.
Quarterback Sam Darnold has struggled, and Jaxon Smith-Njigba has been his only reliable target. If Aiyuk were to sign with Seattle, not only would he be in position to upset the 49ers' lead in the division, but he would form a lethal tandem (assuming he has stayed in football shape) with JSN, thus positioning Seattle as a legitimate Super Bowl contender come January.
2. Los Angeles Rams
The Rams were the early Super Bowl favorites heading into the season. Though things haven't broken their way, star edge rusher Myles Garrett nears his return, and the offense, led by a future Hall of Famer, could turn the corner at any time.
With Davante Adams out, the Rams desperately need a competent receiver opposite Puka Nacua. Aiyuk could be that option, and he would have a chance to play a meaningful divisional game against the 49ers in Week 14. If nothing else, it would make for a juicy storyline.
The last thing the Niners need is for the Rams to get back into the playoff picture. With so many talented players already on the roster, all they need is one push to get their season back on track.
3. Kansas City Chiefs
The Niners wouldn't see an Aiyuk-led Chiefs offense until the Super Bowl. Needless to say, that might bring back some unwanted memories. If Brandon Aiyuk were to sign with Kansas City after a release, a third championship bout between these two storied franchises would have a whole new feel to it.
Rashee Rice returned to health last week, and the Chiefs are arguably one wide receiver away from completely unlocking their offense. A 49ers' Super Bowl with Brandon Aiyuk staring them down from the opposing sideline would be straight out of a fever dream.
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