SANTA CLARA — When the 49ers hit the practice field Thursday, the NFL’s newly crowned richest non-quarterback was in the weight room.
No surprise there.
When defensive tackle Nick Bosa showed up, he looked like he was in top physical condition and ready to see significant action on Sunday, when the 49ers’ 2023 regular season begins.
As the 49ers were undergoing individual drills at the beginning of practice, Bosa participated in warm-ups under the supervision of Dustin Perry, the 49ers’ head of strength and conditioning.
Bosa was not expected to have more than a very limited day of practice Thursday as he slowly adjusts to his football routine. He could see significant playing time Sunday against the Pittsburgh Steelers.
Bosa flew to the Bay Area on Wednesday night after agreeing to terms on a five-year, $170 million extension to finalize a 44-day contract. Bosa earned a record-setting contract after leading the NFL with 18.5 sacks last season and winning the NFL Defensive Player of the Week award.
The NFL granted the 49ers a two-game roster exemption for Bosa. But the club is expected to activate him to the 53-man roster on Saturday, at which point they must make a corresponding roster move in order to create space for Bosa.
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