Nick Bosa: When Will the 49ers Star Return & What’s His Contract Status?
The San Francisco 49ers and edge rusher Nick Bosa entered uncertain territory after the cornerstone defender suffered a season-ending injury in 2025. As the franchise looks ahead to 2026, Bosa’s recovery timeline, contract structure, and potential salary cap maneuvering are all critical storylines.
Nick Bosa Injury Update: 2025 Season Ends Early
Bosa suffered a torn ACL early in the 2025 season and was placed on injured reserve, officially ending his year. The injury halted what was expected to be another All-Pro caliber campaign and left a major void on the 49ers’ defensive front.
ACL recoveries at the NFL level typically require 9–10 months before a player is fully cleared for football activities. Given the timing of Bosa’s surgery in late September 2025, his recovery points toward a return window during summer 2026.
Projected return: OTAs or training camp in 2026, with full availability expected by the start of the regular season if no setbacks occur.
Nick Bosa Contract Status with the 49ers
Bosa remains firmly under contract after signing a blockbuster five-year, $170 million extension with San Francisco in 2023. The deal included massive guarantees and locked him in as one of the NFL’s highest-paid defensive players.
- Under contract through the 2028 season
- Over $120 million guaranteed
- Long-term commitment by the 49ers
There is no immediate contract dispute or extension looming. The focus is squarely on recovery and roster planning.
2026 Salary Cap Impact & Restructure Outlook
Bosa’s contract is structured to escalate in later years, and 2026 carries one of his largest cap hits. As the 49ers juggle multiple high-priced stars, his deal will naturally be part of broader cap discussions.
San Francisco is expected to receive limited insurance-related cap relief due to Bosa’s 2025 injury, but that alone will not significantly reduce his 2026 cap number.
A restructure — converting base salary into signing bonus — is possible, but not guaranteed. Historically, the 49ers prefer to restructure contracts only when necessary rather than aggressively pushing money forward.
What This Means for the 49ers Defense
Bosa’s return is pivotal. Even at less than 100 percent early in the season, his presence changes protections, opens lanes for teammates, and stabilizes the defensive line.
San Francisco’s defensive planning for 2026 assumes Bosa will be ready, but depth additions remain likely as insurance coming off a major knee injury.
Final Outlook
- Return timeline: Summer 2026, targeting training camp
- Contract status: Signed through 2028
- Restructure: Possible but not imminent
Nick Bosa remains a franchise pillar for the 49ers. His recovery, more than his contract, will shape San Francisco’s defensive ceiling as the team attempts to keep its championship window open in 2026.
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