49ers Expect Brandon Aiyuk Return Week 6 After Knee Injury

San Francisco 49ers wide receiver Brandon Aiyuk, sidelined since October 2024 due to torn ACL and MCL injuries, is targeting a midseason return around Week 6 of the 2025 NFL season, though the timeline remains flexible. Head coach Kyle Shanahan has emphasized that while Week 6 is the earliest expected return, it could shift anywhere between Week 5 and Week 10 depending on Aiyuk's recovery progress. His return is highly anticipated to bolster the 49ers' offense, which has been dealing with limited receiving options following Aiyuk's injury and the departure of Deebo Samuel. Quarterback Brock Purdy and the team’s passing game are expected to benefit significantly from Aiyuk’s speed and playmaking ability once he is back on the field. Meanwhile, younger receivers like Ricky Pearsall have stepped up during Aiyuk's absence, providing some optimism for the team's depth. Overall, Aiyuk’s midseason comeback is seen as pivotal for the 49ers to regain offensive momentum after a challenging 2024 season marked by injuries and setbacks.