Bosa cleared for Melbourne opener as Donald’s Rams status remains uncertain
Nick Bosa is expected to play in the 49ers’ meeting with the Rams, while Aaron Donald’s travel and availability remain unresolved.
San Francisco 49ers defensive coordinator Raheem Morris says Nick Bosa will play against the Los Angeles Rams in Melbourne, providing a significant boost to a pass rush that ranked last in the NFL for sacks last season.
Bosa is returning after tearing his right ACL in the previous season and dealing with knee tendinitis during training camp. His expected participation does not establish how many snaps he will take as he continues to build up his conditioning.
The Rams’ Aaron Donald remains noncommittal about travelling to Australia or playing in the season opener. Donald ended his retirement on 30 August to rejoin Los Angeles and is continuing a progressive conditioning programme.
The team’s broader preparations are being shaped by the uncertainty around Donald’s active status and workload. His availability remains subject to day-to-day evaluation, rather than being ruled out.
Elsewhere, the Atlanta Falcons have named Tua Tagovailoa their Week 1 starting quarterback, while the Dallas Cowboys said All-Pro guard Tyler Smith will undergo thumb surgery.
The updates were reported by Fox Sports as NFL teams finalised their Week 1 rosters. The Melbourne fixture is described as the first NFL game in Australia.
