San Francisco 49ers defensive end Nick Bosa saw his 2025 season come to an abrupt end when he suffered a torn ACL in his right knee during a first-half outing against the Arizona Cardinals in September.
Bosa’s knee buckled while he was pressuring the quarterback, and he was later ruled out for the season after an MRI confirmed the ligament tear. The injury required season-ending surgery and cut short what had been a promising start. In just three games, he recorded two sacks, 17 combined tackles, 2 forced fumbles and a fumble recovery before being placed on injured reserve.
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Since undergoing surgery, Bosa’s recovery has progressed steadily. Team officials have expressed optimism about his rehab, noting that he is “tracking really good” and is on pace to be ready by training camp next season, though no definitive timetable has been announced, per 49ers reporter Chase Senior.
San Francisco 49ers defensive end Nick Bosa (97).David Gonzales-Imagn Images
(David Gonzales-Imagn Images)
Bosa, who is now entering the fourth year of his $170 million contract, will look to return at full strength and reclaim his place as the anchor of San Francisco’s pass rush when football returns.
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As the offseason progresses, a clip showing Bosa getting a new haircut has been circulating online. In the video, Bosa could be seen trading his longer hairstyle for a much shorter, cleaner cut.
Fans quickly gave their reactions to his new appearance on social media:
“Looks like he’s going bald,” one fan wrote.
“Young Nick Bosa is back,” another fan added.
“Mid fade in 2026.. yikes,” said another.
“25 Sacks next season,” a fan predicted.
“2019 bosa??” another fan asked.
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Despite the injury, Bosa’s standing within the organization remains unquestioned. Though the 49ers reached the divisional round of the playoffs in his absence, he is a five-time Pro Bowl selection with multiple All-Pro honors and has been one of the league’s most productive edge rushers since being selected No. 2 overall in 2019.
With Bosa on track to return and a strong roster in place, San Francisco expects to be positioned for another deep postseason run.
Related: 49ers Reportedly Make Mac Jones Decision After NFL Season
This story was originally published by Athlon Sports on Feb 22, 2026, where it first appeared in the NFL section. Add Athlon Sports as a Preferred Source by clicking here.