After a whirlwind offseason and preseason, the San Francisco 49ers got some much-needed good news going into Week 1 of the NFL season.
Nick Bosa will play against NFC West rival Los Angeles Rams in Thursday's season opener in Melbourne, Australia, defensive coordinator Raheem Morris told reporters Monday, Sept. 8. The All-Pro edge rusher tore his right ACL in Week 3 last season and began doing individual drills during training camp in July but was soon sidelined again with tendinitis. He continued to rehab in recent weeks and returned to practice on Sept. 2. He progressed enough in his rehab to travel with the Niners to Melbourne, but his status remained unclear.
That was until Morris addressed the media on Monday night in no uncertain terms.
"Oh, he's going out there," Morris said. "Whatever you want to say, he's going. He'll be there. We're not hiding that."
#49ers DE Nick Bosa getting ready for practice here in Melbourne after DC Raheem Morris made it clear he’s expected to play Friday. pic.twitter.com/hisWHU08lP
— Nick Wagoner (@nwagoner) September 8, 2026
Bosa took the field for practice in full uniform on Monday with a brace on his right knee. A few other key players on the injury report – tight end George Kittle, wide receiver Mike Evans and running back Christian McCaffrey – were all reportedly fully dressed as well.
Bosa's was missed on the San Francisco's defensive front last season. The Niners finished 2025 with 20 total sacks, the lowest in the NFL. Bosa isn't just great at getting after the quarterback himself, he commands enough attention and respect from opposing offensive lines that it opens up opportunities for his teammates too.
His presence will be needed against a loaded Rams offense that features the NFL's reigning MVP in Matthew Stafford, Davante Adams and Puka Nacua, who is expected to play despite pending disciplinary action from the league.
This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Nick Bosa set to return to 49ers for Week 1 game vs. Rams in Australia
