Bosa and Kittle set to play for 49ers in Australia opener

The San Francisco 49ers are set to welcome key starters Nick Bosa and George Kittle back to the field for their Week 1 game against the Los Angeles Rams at the Melbourne Cricket Ground. Both players traveled to Australia after spending the offseason recovering from severe injuries suffered during the previous season.

Bosa confirmed for regular season debut

Defensive end Nick Bosa is expected to play on Thursday despite a disrupted preparation during training camp. Bosa tore the ACL in his right knee in Week 3 of last season. After returning to individual drills early in training camp, he missed subsequent practice time due to tendinitis and soreness.

Bosa resumed practicing last week before the team departed for Melbourne. 49ers defensive coordinator Raheem Morris removed any ambiguity regarding the defensive end’s status for the opener. “Oh, he’s going out there,” Morris said. “We’re not hiding that.” While the team has maintained a cautious practice workload for Bosa, Morris voiced confidence in his readiness, describing Bosa as “the ultimate pro.”

Kittle nearing return from Achilles tear

Tight end George Kittle is also trending toward playing against the Rams as he completes his rehabilitation from a torn right Achilles tendon suffered in January. San Francisco activated Kittle from the physically unable to perform list on Aug. 24, and he has since been a regular participant in full-speed practice sessions and team drills.

Offensive coordinator Klay Kubiak stated that Kittle is “practicing full speed” and absorbing a heavy workload in practice. Kubiak noted that while an official determination will be made after the team finishes its practice schedule in Melbourne, Kittle’s progress remains encouraging heading into the game.

Game management and physical readiness

Although both players appear ready to feature, the coaching staff has not disclosed the exact workload either player will handle against Los Angeles. Bosa’s snap count may be monitored due to his recent layoff, while Kittle’s status will be monitored through the team’s final two practice sessions leading up to Thursday’s kickoff.

Background

Nick Bosa and George Kittle represent two of San Francisco’s most impactful starters. Bosa is a former NFL Defensive Player of the Year who leads the team’s pass rush, while Kittle is a multi-time Pro Bowl tight end vital to both the team’s passing game and run blocking. Their availability is critical for the 49ers as they open their regular season with an international division game against the Rams.