2 injured 49ers DEs expected to return at some point in training camp
San Francisco 49ers GM John Lynch had some good news on a pair of injured defensive ends at the NFL owners meetings.
The San Francisco 49ers ' struggling pass rush should get a significant lift in training camp according to an update from general manager John Lynch on Sunday at the NFL owners meetings. Lynch told reporters defensive ends Nick Bosa and Mykel Williams are on track to be eased into action during training camp according to ESPN's Nick Wagoner. Bosa and Williams both sustained torn ACLs during the 2025 season.
The former tore his in Week 3, while the latter's came in Week 9. There's no specific timeline for either player's return, but the fact there's optimism for both to be back for training camp means they should be back early in the regular season if not Week 1. San Francisco desperately needs both Bosa and Williams on the field as early as possible.
Without Bosa their pass rush struggled badly, and their run defense took a massive hit when Williams went out. However, the club also needs to exercise a level of caution when bringing them back, especially with Williams who tore his ACL in early November. Both players are essential for the 49ers' success in 2026.
Neither needs to be rushed back into action and endanger their hopes of being healthy late in the year. Another update should come in April when the 49ers begins their offseason program. The team may not put a specific date on their returns until the time gets closer so they're not putting undue pressure on their rehabbing players.