Shanahan explains what Aiyuk’s presence means for the contract situation. Originally published on NBC Sports Bay Area

LAS VEGAS – Brandon Aiyuk traveled with his teammates to the 49ers’ final preseason game.

That means the wide receiver’s status on the team is more clearly defined, right?

“Nope,” 49ers coach Kyle Shanahan replied Friday night after a 24-24 tie with the Las Vegas Raiders at Allegiant Stadium.

So why did Aiyuk board the plane and fly to Las Vegas on Thursday afternoon?

“We want everyone on our team to travel, especially if we think they’re healthy and stuff,” Shanahan said. “That’s why we let him travel.”

Aiyuk is under contract with the 49ers for $14.124 million this season, but he is unlikely to play on that contract because it is well below his market value.

Aiyuk’s team and the 49ers are currently negotiating a new contract. The 49ers have also had trade talks with at least three teams – the Pittsburgh Steelers, the Cleveland Browns and the New England Patriots.

Shanahan said he doesn’t believe Aiyuk’s presence is a distraction for the team. Aiyuk showed up to training camp on time to avoid fines, but he hasn’t practiced as part of his “time off.” He has attended meetings regularly.

The 49ers open the regular season against the New York Jets on Monday, September 9. It remains to be seen if Aiyuk’s performance this season will suffer due to his refusal to participate in the 49ers’ offseason program or training camp.

Quarterback Brock Purdy said he hasn’t thrown to Aiyuk yet this offseason, but believes it won’t take long to rebuild the strong connection they’ve had on the field the past two seasons.

“I’m confident we can pick up where we left off,” Purdy said. “I’ve been throwing to him for two years, and now it’s obviously been three years. I understand our plays, our concepts, where he needs to be, where the receiver needs to be. I’m pretty confident he’ll come back and we’ll be on the same page.”

Aiyuk has been the 49ers’ leader in receptions and receiving yards over the past two seasons. He was named to the AP Second-Team All-Pro last season when he caught 75 passes for 1,342 yards and seven touchdowns.

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