Brandon Aiyuk might have sealed his fate by getting on Kyle Shanahan's nerves

If there's one person who could fully sign off on a trade of Brandon Aiyuk, it's Kyle Shanahan.
San Francisco 49ers wide receiver Brandon Aiyuk (L) and head coach Kyle Shanahan (R)
San Francisco 49ers wide receiver Brandon Aiyuk (L) and head coach Kyle Shanahan (R) / Michael Zagaris/GettyImages
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Whether or not it was intentional, recent reports suggest Brandon Aiyuk has done enough to anger Kyle Shanahan to the point of an imminent trade.

While John Lynch serves as the San Francisco 49ers' general manager, most clearly understand head coach Kyle Shanahan calls the worthwhile shots, at least in terms of the roster.

Putting things simply, getting into Shanahan's doghouse isn't a good idea.

Wide receiver Brandon Aiyuk (you've probably read about him recently) has been there before but emerged as the Niners' leading receiver over the last two seasons and is now quarterback Brock Purdy's favorite target.

Now, though, an Aiyuk trade seems imminent in light of stalemated contract extensions talks that have apparently gone nowhere all summer. Granted, news and reports are confusing and conflicting, but all that tells us is the situation remains fluid.

However, there's an extra nugget that hasn't been discussed much, and it involves Shanahan and his relationship with Aiyuk.

Report: Brandon Aiyuk's behavior has 'bothered' Kyle Shanahan

On the field, San Francisco has little reason to part ways with Aiyuk, especially as it's poised to return to the Super Bowl. He's still under contract in 2025, and the 49ers could apply the franchise tag on him for the following two years.

So, despite the Niners not willing to currently meet the receiver's contractual demands, what would convince them to part ways with Aiyuk, especially now?

How about Shanahan?

Mike Silver of the San Francisco Chronicle shed some insight into the relationship between the head coach and the disgruntled wideout, who has often used social media as a way to fire subtle shots at the 49ers all offseason.

In the article, Shanahan is reportedly fed up with Aiyuk's behavior:

"Quite simply, according to multiple sources, the head coach is bothered by Aiyuk’s behavior, from the receiver’s conspicuous “bro hugs” to his perceived brooding, and is willing to part ways."

That helps explain why the Niners opted not to trade Aiyuk earlier this offseason, particularly before the NFL Draft when they could have used assets on prospects who'd potentially help now. It also helps explain why various reports state San Francisco hasn't changed its offer since May, leading to the increased nature of the standoff.

Aiyuk remains a "hold-in" at training camp, and Shanahan's most recent presser didn't exactly reveal much aside from the usual "anything's possible" remarks the head coach often uses.

But, if Aiyuk crossed a line with Shanahan to the point of no reconciliation, the wide receiver might as well be as good as gone.

And Shanahan is reportedly ready to sign off on it, whenever it's convenient.

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