The San Francisco 49ers are hoping to get Nick Bosa back on the field before their Week 8 bye, though head coach Kyle Shanahan cautioned that the star defensive end’s return timeline remains uncertain.
Speaking on KNBR, Shanahan said Bosa could be nearing a return from the calf injury that has sidelined him since September.
“Hopefully it'll be sooner than later. We'd love to get him out there before our bye week," Shanahan said. "I don't think he's far from playing, but still too early to tell.
Bosa suffered the calf injury during a warm-up before practice in late September, interrupting his return from the torn ACL that ended his 2025 season. He played San Francisco’s first two games this season, recording seven tackles, two tackles for loss and
one quarterback hit before the latest setback.
The 49ers have been without their top pass rusher since, leaving a depleted defensive line to find ways to generate pressure. San Francisco’s defensive front has dealt with multiple injuries early in the season, making Bosa’s eventual return especially important.
The 28-year-old has recorded 64.5 sacks, 169 quarterback hits and 285 tackles in 87 career games.
The 49ers have some big matches before they reach their bye week, including a Week 5 road showdown with the reigning NFC West champion Seattle Seahawks. San Francisco then plays the Washington Commanders at home before taking on the Atlanta Falcons on the road.
While Bosa has been missed, it's more important to get him back for the second half of the schedule.
This article originally appeared on Niners Wire: 49ers HC Kyle Shanahan offers hopeful update on Nick Bosa’s return
