San Francisco 49ers defensive end Nick Bosa is set to play in the franchise’s season‑opening game against the Los Angeles Rams on Thursday, a matchup that will take place in Melbourne, Australia. The announcement came from defensive coordinator Raheem Morris during a media session on Monday, where he said, “Nick Bosa is going to play. We’re not trying to hide that.”
Recovery from a third ACL surgery
Bosa, 28, resumed full‑team practice last Wednesday, marking his first complete participation since suffering a season‑ending right ACL tear in September 2025. The injury required his third ACL reconstruction and the second on his right knee. Despite the setbacks, the five‑time Pro Bowl defensive end has amassed 64.5 sacks, 168 quarterback hits, 278 tackles, two interceptions and 13 forced fumbles in 85 career games (83 starts) since being drafted second overall by the 49ers in 2019.
George Kittle also trending toward activation
San Francisco tight end George Kittle is also on the verge of returning to the field. Offensive coordinator Klay Kubiak explained that the team will evaluate Kittle’s progress over the next two practice sessions before making a final decision. Kittle, 32, tore his right Achilles tendon during the January 11, 2026, wild‑card playoff win over the Philadelphia Eagles. He was cleared from the physically unable to perform list on August 23 and recorded 57 receptions for 628 yards and seven touchdowns in 11 regular‑season games last year. Over his career, Kittle has logged 595 catches for 8,008 yards and 52 touchdowns in 124 games (116 starts).
What the season opener means for the 49ers
The opening game in Melbourne is part of the NFL’s international series, giving fans Down Under a chance to see two of the league’s premier franchises live. For the 49ers, having both Bosa and Kittle available could provide a significant boost to a defense that aims to improve its pass rush and an offense that relies on Kittle’s versatility in the passing game.
Coach Morris emphasized that the team’s health updates are being communicated transparently, reflecting the organization’s commitment to keeping fans informed. “We want our supporters, whether they’re in San Francisco or Melbourne, to know exactly where we stand with our key players,” he said.
Looking ahead
The 49ers will travel to Australia for the Thursday kickoff, marking the first time the franchise has opened a season abroad. The game will be broadcast nationally in the United States and streamed internationally, offering a global audience a glimpse of the team’s renewed competitiveness.
Fans can expect a high‑energy contest as the 49ers’ defense, anchored by Bosa’s pass‑rushing prowess, seeks to contain the Rams’ offense, while the 49ers’ offense hopes to capitalize on Kittle’s playmaking ability. The outcome of this international showdown could set the tone for the rest of the 2026 NFL season.
Original reporting: Appleton, WI News Feed (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
