Brandon Aiyuk's social media post mocking Kyle Shanahan's car crash draws backlash and could cost him a job - Fox News

What the report says

Fox News reported that San Francisco 49ers wide receiver Brandon Aiyuk drew criticism from people around the NFL after an Instagram story late Tuesday appeared to refer to head coach Kyle Shanahan’s recent car crash. Aiyuk did not name Shanahan, but posted lines including, “You can’t win the race if you crash out,” followed by a message about keeping one’s head up and staying in one’s lane.

According to Fox News Digital, multiple NFL sources reacted negatively to the post, with one describing the behavior as “disgusted” because it seemed to mock or celebrate Shanahan’s situation. Fox reported that Shanahan was injured earlier this month in a head-on collision after he dropped his phone while driving and his Tesla moved into oncoming traffic. The reported injuries included broken ribs, a broken nose, a broken hand and concussion symptoms.

The report framed the post as part of a broader rift between Aiyuk and the 49ers. Fox said Aiyuk remains under contract but is on the reserve/left squad list and is not at training camp. The outlet also cited earlier tensions over his rehabilitation from a 2024 ACL injury and noted prior social media activity, including a video that allegedly led to a California misdemeanor exhibition-of-speed charge.

Fox also highlighted the Washington Commanders as a team linked to possible interest in Aiyuk, given their receiver need and his Arizona State connection with quarterback Jayden Daniels. Asked generally about weighing social media conduct in player evaluations, Commanders general manager Adam Peters said teams look at many factors, including locker-room fit and culture, though it is not usually the primary issue.