49ers Send 5-Word Message on Brandon Aiyuk

Despite his ongoing contract drama, the San Francisco 49ers expect Brandon Aiyuk to return to practice on Wednesday.

Aiyuk's saga has dragged on for weeks, with the former first-round pick seeking a lucrative extension that will put him on par with the top pass-catchers in the league. Aiyuk is entering the final year of his rookie deal that will pay him just over $14 million.

At one point, a trade appeared imminent. However, the sides have recently discussed a contract that would keep Aiyuk in a 49ers uniform.

Aiyuk staged a hold-in during the preseason, but with Week 1 approaching, the 49ers are ready for him to participate fully in their preparation. Both head coach Kyle Shanahan and general manager John Lynch expressed their desire for Aiyuk to be at practice.

“We’ll see. I know he's here today and that's the expectation," Lynch said.

So what happens if Aiyuk isn't on the field?

"Then we'll deal with that," Lynch said.

Local media members reported shortly after Lynch's press conference that Aiyuk did not report to the start of practice.

Lynch wasn't willing to say if he'd discussed potential fines for not suiting up with Aiyuk, but he did stand firm on his expectations.

“I'm not gonna get into any communication," Lynch said, "but at some point you've got to play.”

Aiyuk is coming off a career year, catching 75 passes for 1,342 yards and seven touchdowns. The 49ers open their season on September 9 against the New York Jets.

Related: Brandon Aiyuk Described 49ers Contract Negotiations With One Word