Nick Bosa's Contract: Will It Cause Salary Cap Trouble for the 49ers?

San Francisco 49ers sign Nick Bosa to a $170 million deal, ensuring his presence in the season opener.

The San Francisco 49ers have made a significant move by signing Nick Bosa, making him the highest-paid non-quarterback in the NFL. The timing of the deal is crucial as it ensures that Bosa will be ready for the season opener against Pittsburgh on Sunday.

Head coach Kyle Shanahan expressed his confidence in Bosa's readiness, stating, "I mean, there is a question because we haven't seen him, but I think you guys know how I'm talking. Like he'd have to have a beer belly and be out of shape or something, which that's not in Bosa's DNA."

The deal, first reported by ESPN, is worth $170 million over five years, with $122.5 million guaranteed. It was later revealed that Bosa will also receive a signing bonus of $50 million, extending his current deal. This means that the 49ers will have Bosa under their control for the next six seasons.

Having Bosa on the field for the season opener gives the San Francisco team a significant advantage. Last season, Bosa recorded an impressive 18.5 sacks and 48 quarterback hits. To put these numbers into perspective, the combined career highs of the 49ers' other four edge rushers amount to only 20.5 sacks and 41 quarterback hits.

On Thursday afternoon, Bosa made his first appearance on the practice field in Santa Clara. During the media-accessible portion of practice, he was seen working with 49ers strength and conditioning coach Dustin Perry.

Looking ahead, the 49ers will now focus on extending wide receiver Brandon Aiyuk. The team has been successful in retaining their top players, with the exception of DeForest Buckner. Despite the lucrative contract given to Bosa, the 49ers have the ability to manage their salary cap and make room for Aiyuk.

The NFL's salary cap may seem restrictive, but teams can always find ways to hold on to their desired players. The 49ers have proven this by restructuring contracts, such as those of George Kittle and Trent Williams, to create $23.224 million in cap space. This flexibility allows them to not only secure Aiyuk but also potentially bring in additional free agents.

In fact, the 49ers have the potential to free up nearly $82 million by restructuring more contracts. Players like Deebo Samuel, Fred Warner, and Arik Armstead could be among those who receive new deals.

In terms of practice updates, Jon Feliciano and Trent Williams returned after missing Wednesday's practice. Feliciano was absent due to illness, while Williams had a rest day. George Kittle, who has been dealing with a groin injury, showed promising movement during individual work and while running routes with the quarterbacks.

Ray-Ray McCloud, who injured his thumb, was seen running routes and appears to have recovered quickly. Other players present during the media-accessible portion of practice included Oren Burks, Talanoa Hufanga, Tashaun Gipson, Jordan Mason, and Jake Moody, despite their respective injuries.

Overall, the signing of Nick Bosa solidifies the San Francisco 49ers' defense and sets them up for a promising season. With the potential to retain key players and create cap space, the team remains in a strong position moving forward.