Kyle Shanahan Drops Unexpected Update on Brandon Aiyuk’s Return – What Fans Need to Know Now

Ever wonder how a single injury can ripple through an entire team’s season, altering dynamics and casting long shadows over lofty championship dreams? That’s the tough truth staring down the San Francisco 49ers as they gear up for 2025. After flirting with glory and letting a promising 2024 slip through their fingers—thanks in no small part to an injury bug bite—they’re now holding their breath for WR Brandon Aiyuk’s much-anticipated comeback. With Kyle Shanahan dropping the Week 6 return timeline, the question isn’t just if Aiyuk can step back into his role, but whether the 49ers can recalibrate their entire offensive game plan without missing a beat. It’s a high-stakes puzzle with NFC Championship hopes on the line—and trust me, things are just getting interesting.

SEATTLE, WASHINGTON - OCTOBER 10: Head coach Kyle Shanahan of the San Francisco 49ers reacts during the second quarter against the Seattle Seahawks at Lumen Field on October 10, 2024 in Seattle, Washington. — (Photo by Steph Chambers/Getty Images)

The San Francisco 49ers were among the Super Bowl favorites heading into the 2024 NFL season.

They had rattled off two strong seasons, and many believed that with one more year together, they would have the experience needed to win it all.

Unfortunately for the 49ers, things didn’t go their way, as injuries put a damper on their season.

Thankfully, many of their impact players are ready to try again in 2025, but head coach Kyle Shanahan recently revealed an update about one of their top receivers.

“49ers HC Kyle Shanahan estimated today to reporters that WR Brandon Aiyuk — who is recovering from a significant knee injury — could be back for Week 6,” ESPN insider Adam Schefter wrote on X.

49ers HC Kyle Shanahan estimated today to reporters that WR Brandon Aiyuk — who is recovering from a significant knee injury — could be back for Week 6.

— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) August 11, 2025

This is a blow to the 49ers’ passing game, as Aiyuk is expected to be WR1 after Deebo Samuel was traded to the Washington Commanders.

Quarterback Brock Purdy will have to focus his attention elsewhere, likely needing second-year wideout Ricky Pearsall to step up while also giving tight end George Kittle an even larger role.

The 49ers’ defense will likely be strong again, but it remains to be seen how the offense will fare without Aiyuk to handle the bulk of the receiving work.

San Francisco can’t afford to have any more setbacks if it wants to get to the NFC Championship Game.

The post Kyle Shanahan Reveals Timeline For Brandon Aiyuk’s Return appeared first on The Cold Wire.