Report: Nick Bosa Week 1 status in doubt as contract holdout continues

Nick Bosa missed another meeting with his 49ers teammates, Wednesday. And his absence makes his availability for the season opener very much in doubt.

This is according to a report from Ian Rapoport of NFL Network. He shared on Twitter Wednesday morning:

“With the first practice of game week upon us, #49ers star Nick Bosa is not in the building for meetings with his teammates, sources say, as his holdout stretches into the regular season. His status for Week 1 is now in doubt as he seeks a blockbuster contract extension.”

With the first practice of game week upon us, #49ers star Nick Bosa is not in the building for meetings with his teammates, sources say, as his holdout stretches into the regular season. His status for Week 1 is now in doubt as he seeks a blockbuster contract extension.

— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) September 6, 2023

Nick Bosa isn’t only big name defender continuing a holdout

Nick Bosa is one of three high-profile defensive players who still are holding out for heftier contracts with the regular season kickoffs days away. Chris Jones has yet to end his lengthy holdout with the Chiefs. And Brian Burns is at an impasse with the Panthers.

Bosa is entering his fifth and final year of his rookie contract. The 49ers picked up Bosa’s fifth year option last year. So if he reports this week, he would receive a fully guaranteed salary of nearly $18 million. But because he’s one of the best at his position in the game, he’d like a contract that matches his standing. He’s won NFL Defensive Player of the Year award two times since the 49ers selected him with the second pick of the 2019 NFL Draft. Plus, he’s posted 34 sacks over the past two seasons.

Reportedly Nick Bosa wants to be the highest-paid edge rusher and potentially the highest-paid non quarterback in the NFL. For context, Aaron Donald is the highest paid defensive lineman if you go by average salary per year. That’s $31.67 million. Meanwhile, Steeler star T.J. Watt is the highest paid if you go by most guaranteed money. His contract is worth $80 million.

The 49ers would love to have Bosa on the field this Sunday for their season opener against the Steelers. Someone needs to rush Pittsburgh quarterback Kenny Pickett, who observers say had a fantastic training camp building chemistry with receiver George Pickens.