49ers have ‘legit plan’ in place for Nick Bosa ahead of season opener

The San Francisco 49ers are preparing to make the long trip to Australia for their season opener against the Los Angeles Rams, with plenty of attention surrounding the health of their defensive front.

Defensive coordinator Raheem Morris met with the media before the team’s departure this week and was asked directly about the status of Nick Bosa and fellow defensive lineman Romello Height.

Morris acknowledged there was still some uncertainty, but indicated the 49ers had a plan in place as they worked toward the September 10 matchup.

“We’ll see. We’ve got a week to practice. We’ve got to get to Australia. All those things that happen,” Morris said. “Obviously, they haven’t been out there today, but we’ve got plans and different return dates. When they return, they’ll get a chance to practice this week and get ready to go. So, I feel pretty good about it.”

SANTA CLARA, CALIFORNIA – NOVEMBER 17: Nick Bosa #97 of the San Francisco 49ers looks on during the third quarter of a game against the Seattle Seahawks at Levi’s Stadium on November 17, 2024 in Santa Clara, California. (Photo by Lachlan Cunningham/Getty Images)

More on Nick Bosa’s return from a torn ACL

Nick Bosa’s status was the obvious focal point, particularly with the veteran defensive end having been limited during the latter portion of the preseason process.

Morris was asked whether Bosa needed to practice before making the trip and how much work would be necessary for him to feel comfortable putting the All-Pro on the field.

Morris made it clear that the decision would ultimately center on Bosa’s readiness rather than a predetermined number of practices.

“Nick Bosa’s played a lot of football,” Morris said. “For me to feel comfortable, it’d be different. It’s more about Bosa, right? So, what does Bosa need? What does he need to get out there and prepare himself to go be the very best version of himself?”

Morris stopped short of revealing the specifics of the plan, saying he did not want to get ahead of head coach Kyle Shanahan. He did, however, emphasize that the organization was taking an all-hands-on-deck approach to getting Bosa ready.

“Obviously they’ve got a real legit plan,” Morris said, pointing to the work of the coaching staff, Shanahan, general manager John Lynch and the team’s health and performance personnel.

“Whatever it takes for him to get out there, I’m just going to feel good when he gets a chance to get out there and be able to call those plays for him.”

Defensive end Nick Bosa #97 of the San Francisco 49ers during the NFL game at State Farm Stadium on October 10, 2021 in Glendale, Arizona. The Cardinals defeated the 49ers 17-10. (Photo by Christian Petersen/Getty Images)

The 49ers subsequently received encouraging news, with Lynch sharing that both Nick Bosa and George Kittle would travel to Australia with the intent of playing against the Rams.

While Morris couldn’t provide that clarity during his media availability, his comments made clear the 49ers were carefully managing Bosa’s return while preparing for a unique season-opening challenge.

Morris also praised Sam Okuayinonu, who had taken significant first-team reps at defensive end during Bosa’s absence. He called Okuayinonu a “barnyard bully” and praised his strength, versatility, and ability to create disruption.

With the Rams looming, San Francisco appears to be prioritizing getting its key pieces ready for when the games finally count.

More 49ers content from Sactown Sports

• 49ers trim roster to 53 Players ahead of season opener in Australia
• 49ers’ RB depth could change Christian McCaffrey’s role
• The 49ers’ O-Line could determine Christian McCaffrey’s ceiling
• Brooks: De’Zhaun Stribling is “the absolute real deal”
• Christian McCaffrey could see a lighter workload in 2026

Upcoming San Francisco 49ers 2026 Schedule

• Thursday, September 10th – vs. Los Angeles Rams in Melbourne, Australia (Season Opener) – 5:35 pm PT
• Sunday, September 20th – vs. Miami Dolphins – 1:25 pm PT
• Sunday, September 27th – vs. Arizona Cardinals – 1:05 pm PT
• Sunday, October 4th – vs. Denver Broncos – 1:25 pm PT

Thank you for reading SactownSports.com. Follow us on Twitter and Google News, and subscribe to our YouTube channel.

Related

NBA insiders connect Jalen Duren’s future to Domantas Sabonis’ Kings uncertaintyReport: 49ers’ Nick Bosa, George Kittle to travel to AustraliaInside UC Davis’ incredible comeback win over Portland StateNick Wagoner Details 49ers’ Week 1 Travel and Health Challenges In AustraliaWhy the Kings’ future isn’t as bleak as Bleacher Report’s ranking suggestsSacramento Kings announce 2026-27 theme nights