Commanders continue to be linked with star WR in free agency

The NFL offseason is where rumors fly around. Some with substance, others without it, and for the Washington Commanders, there is one rumor that just won't leave the franchise.

And that is the NFC East organization being "in" for San Francisco 49ers receiver Brandon Aiyuk.

Aiyuk missed the entire 2025 season with injury and is expected to be released by the 49ers in the coming months, and when he is, Washington is expected to swoop.

And for CBS Sports' Zachary Pereles, Aiyuk remains a good fit for the Commanders, who have only Terry McLaurin as a top weapon for Jayden Daniels.

"The Commanders were in on both Alec Pierce and Romeo Doubs but ended up with neither," Pereles wrote. "They mostly focused on the defensive side in free agency. The offensive free agents they added -- Dyami Brown and Van Jefferson -- arrived on cheap, one-year deals. Once the 49ers release him, Aiyuk is expected to be the next addition, but Washington could (and should) still do more."

More: Chiefs look to reunite with 2-time Super Bowl champion?

Is Aiyuk the right choice?

You could make that case, yes. But how many players, coming off not playing for an entire season, come back exactly as they were? Not many.

That's not to say Aiyuk can't, but the odds appear stacked against him.

The Commanders offer an interesting escape route for Aiyuk. He won't be the dominant guy, the Commanders like to run the ball, and it is reported he loves the idea of playing with Jayden.

There is still plenty of time in the offseason, but once Aiyuk is released, which many think is a mere formality, the Commanders will have their chance to sign him.

More NFL news:

• Steelers' new WR unsure over QB position in 2026
• Bills urged to fix 1 key position for Josh Allen
• Analyst reveals brutal reality awaiting Dolphins' Malik Willis
• Analyst has Chargers in surprising position in power rankings
• Raiders again linked with Pro Bowl QB
• Analyst gives compelling reason for Chargers' slow free agency approach
• Commanders linked with star WR for Jayden Daniels