Sun Oct 12 23:10:00 UTC 2025: **FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE**

**49ers Defense Struggles Without Bosa, Trade Deadline Looms**

SAN FRANCISCO, CA – The San Francisco 49ers’ defense is noticeably less effective without star defensive end Nick Bosa, raising concerns as the trade deadline approaches. Analysis of the team’s performance with and without Bosa reveals a significant drop in pressure on opposing quarterbacks.

In the two games Bosa has played, the 49ers recorded 27 pressures, including three sacks and four quarterback hits. However, in the two games Bosa missed, those numbers plummeted to 18 pressures, one sack, and one quarterback hit.

The absence of Bosa accounts for the majority of this decline. Bosa himself accounted for nine pressures, two sacks, and two quarterback hits in the games he played. While players around Bosa haven’t necessarily regressed, no one has stepped up to fill the void. Mykel Williams has shown improvement, and Bryce Huff has maintained a consistent level of play, but others like Sam Okuayinonu haven’t capitalized on increased playing time, and Yetur Gross-Matos is now injured.

The 49ers have faced tougher quarterbacks (Trevor Lawrence, Matthew Stafford) with Bosa in the lineup compared to Sam Darnold and Spencer Rattler, however, the upcoming schedule presents a more difficult slate of opponents. The drop off in defensive pressure without Bosa raises serious questions about the defense’s ability to perform against top-tier competition.

With Gross-Matos injured, the 49ers’ defensive line depth is becoming increasingly thin. The 49ers should be actively exploring trade options to acquire a pass rusher who can provide quality snaps and alleviate the pressure on Bosa and the rest of the defense. While acquiring a high-profile player like a Trey Hendrickson would be ideal, the immediate need is for a reliable contributor who can bolster the team’s pass rush.

The 49ers, currently 2-0 with Bosa and 1-1 without him, must address this defensive vulnerability to maintain their Super Bowl aspirations. The trade deadline presents a crucial opportunity to add the necessary depth and talent to ensure the defense remains a dominant force regardless of Bosa’s availability.

**(Originally reported by SI San Francisco 49ers, syndicated with permission)**

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