Since being drafted by the San Francisco 49ers with the No. 2 overall pick in the 2019 NFL draft, defensive end Nick Bosa has consistently been a pivotal player for the franchise. On Wednesday, he secured a substantial contract extension, signing a five-year, $170 million deal, with $122.5 million guaranteed, making him the highest-paid non-quarterback in NFL history, according to sources cited by ESPN’s Adam Schefter.

Re-signing Bosa was a top priority for the 2023 49ers, as he currently holds the title of NFL Defensive Player of the Year, and many consider him the player they can least afford to lose. With Bosa on the roster, the 49ers have legitimate Super Bowl aspirations. However, in his absence, envisioning the same level of success becomes significantly more challenging.

Since Bosa’s NFL debut in 2019, the 49ers boast a 43-17 record in games he has played, but a 5-10 record in those he hasn’t, including playoff matchups. During this period, the team also recorded the highest pressure rate in the league (32%) when Bosa was on the field, which dropped to the second-lowest (25%) when he was absent. Bosa is expected to return to action this Sunday against the Pittsburgh Steelers.

Bosa’s impact extends beyond the short term. Now under contract until 2028, he not only serves as the team’s dominant defender but also plays a crucial role in bridging the gap between the current star nucleus and a young, up-and-coming group aiming to extend the championship window for years to come.

Head coach Kyle Shanahan emphasized the influence of players like Bosa, highlighting their dedication to their craft and their ability to set a higher standard for their teammates. Bosa’s remarkable statistics include 43 sacks, 156 tackles, 56 tackles for loss, and 106 quarterback hits in just 51 regular-season games. He has earned accolades such as Defensive Rookie of the Year, three Pro Bowl selections, and a first-team All-Pro nod. Remarkably, Bosa won’t even turn 26 until late October, indicating that he is entering his prime.

Teammates and coaches commend Bosa’s discipline and work ethic, expressing confidence in his ability to return to top form and make an immediate impact. They believe he can build upon his career-best 2022 season, during which he recorded 18.5 sacks.

Bosa’s youth also places him and linebacker Fred Warner, who will turn 27 later this year, as the team’s prominent younger players under long-term contracts. The 49ers’ sustained success will rely on Bosa and Warner’s ability to maintain elite performance on the field while serving as role models for the next generation of 49ers players.

While veteran players like Trent Williams, Javon Hargrave, Arik Armstead, George Kittle, Kyle Juszczyk, Deebo Samuel, and Christian McCaffrey still have quality years ahead of them, it’s likely that they’ve already secured the most substantial contracts of their careers, at least with the 49ers.

In Short

Nick Bosa’s historic contract extension not only secures a formidable talent for the San Francisco 49ers but also cements his role as a cornerstone for the team’s future success. His remarkable performance on and off the field sets a powerful example for aspiring players and underscores the franchise’s commitment to long-term excellence. As Bosa continues to ascend in his prime, the 49ers and their fans have every reason to be excited about the journey ahead, powered by the enduring legacy of this defensive star.

Nick Bosa’s record-breaking contract extension with the San Francisco 49ers not only secures a vital player but also signifies his pivotal role in shaping the franchise’s future. With Bosa’s remarkable skills and leadership, the team is poised for long-term success, offering fans a promising outlook for the seasons to come.

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