Is Brandon Aiyuk going to play today for 49ers vs. Titans?

The 49ers open up their 2024 preseason against the Titans, and Brandon Aiyuk remains the proverbial elephant in the room.

The San Francisco 49ers will square off against the Tennessee Titans for both teams' Week 1 preseason bout this Saturday, Aug. 10 at Nissan Stadium in Nashville.

It's a good guess whether or not wide receiver Brandon Aiyuk will make himself available.

Aiyuk, of course, has been a hot topic of conversation as of late, the focal point of back-and-forth rumors and reports that suggest he'll be traded to the highest bidder amid a contract-extension dispute that's failed to make much progress in recent months.

So far, no transaction has taken place. And, according to the latest from NFL insider Jordan Schultz, the Niners are again reopening conversations with their leading pass catcher from the last two seasons, potentially in an attempt to come to a new agreement.

While Aiyuk has been physically present for training camp, thereby avoiding fines of $40,000 per day, he has opted not to participate in team drills as he awaits his fate.

Now, with the preseason here, the next question is whether or not he'll make himself available and play.

Don't expect Brandon Aiyuk to play vs. Titans

There are a number of caveats surrounding Aiyuk's potential to play in San Francisco's preseason opener.

Outright skipping the game and avoiding any availability would cost the receiver the equivalent of one week's pay, according to the current bargaining agreement between the league and players union, and Aiyuk isn't likely to do that since he's been physically present at camp.

However, head coach Kyle Shanahan told reporters he doesn't plan on playing the majority of his starters for Saturday's exhibition contest, meaning stars like Aiyuk are likely going to be dressed in street clothes regardless of their availability.

Related story: 49ers vs. Titans game time, location and everything you need to know

Even if Aiyuk and the 49ers somehow manage to finalize an extension between now and kickoff time, the likelihood of him suiting up for the game would be next to none.

If a deal isn't finalized, the Niners probably want to honor Aiyuk's own wishes by not forcing him into uniform either.

As such, don't expect to see No. 11 on the field at all when San Francisco kicks off against Tennessee at 7 p.m. ET.

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