Andrew Buller-Russ
Four years ago, the San Francisco 49ers made Nick Bosa the second overall pick in the 2019 NFL Draft. The hope was that Joey’s younger brother would eventually develop into a franchise cornerstone and one of the best pass-rushers in football.
Both missions have been accomplished.
But now, with Bosa entering the fifth and final year of his rookie contract, there’s a sense of urgency to get the 25-year-old locked in long-term in the Bay Area. With 49ers training camp set to begin, Bosa won’t be taking part. At least, not until he reaches a contract extension.
Yet, even the person who drafted him, general manager John Lynch, says he didn’t expect Bosa to attend training camp until a new contract is reached. Being that Lynch once played himself, it’s likely not hard for him to understand why his star player wants to avoid injury before gaining some financial security from his employer.
Meanwhile, Bosa, the reigning Defensive Player of the Year, is expected to eventually ink a record-breaking contract for NFL defenders. That’s just the standard when a top player at his position signs a new contract in the modern era, unless you’re a running back, of course.
This means Bosa is likely looking at an extension worth north of $30 million per season, topping Aaron Donald as the highest-paid non-QB in the NFL. Yet, after helping the 49ers lead the league’s best defense in 2022, it’s hard to suggest he’s not worth every penny.
Related: Top NFL free agents of 2024: An early look at Nick Bosa and others
