Joey Bosa’s Golf Game: How Nick Bosa’s Brother Is Training Amid Free Agency
Veteran edge rusher Joey Bosa remains one of the most sought-after free agents in the NFL, but his future in the league hangs on a critical question: Does he still want to play? With an 11th season on the horizon and a career already defined by dominance, Bosa’s decision could reshape the free agency landscape—and the 49ers’ pass rush—if he chooses to continue.
The Bosa Brothers’ Diverging Paths
While Nick Bosa has returned from an ACL tear suffered in Week 3 of last season, his brother’s priorities appear to lie elsewhere. Nick, speaking via David Bonilla of 49erswebzone.com, suggested Joey may be more focused on golf than football. “I think he’s working on his golf game right now,” Nick said. “So, I don’t think he’s thinking too much about football.”
The 49ers, who finished with the NFL’s lowest sack total (20) last season, could benefit from Joey’s addition to their pass rush. Head coach Kyle Shanahan acknowledged the potential but framed it as a challenge. “I look at our team as kind of we have our team, and anyone else that One can figure out to bring, especially someone like that, that would be awesome,” Shanahan said. “But that stuff’s not always possible.”
Why This Matters
Joey Bosa’s decision carries weight beyond his own career. For the 49ers, his arrival could address a defensive line that struggled without Nick for much of last season. For other teams, his presence on the market adds leverage, though his age (he turns 31 in July) and recent production may limit his appeal.
If Joey opts out, it would mark the end of an era for one of the NFL’s most feared edge rushers. His departure would also leave the Bosa brothers’ dynamic unresolved—Nick’s return has already reshaped San Francisco’s defense, but without Joey, the pass rush would lack its signature dual-threat presence.
What Could Happen Next?
A few scenarios may unfold. If Joey remains committed to football, he could command a lucrative contract from a team needing edge-rush firepower. The 49ers, given their defensive needs and Nick’s return, could emerge as a frontrunner—but Shanahan’s caution suggests competition may be fierce.
Alternatively, if Joey retires, his absence would leave a void in the NFL’s pass-rush conversation. His brother’s success in San Francisco could make the city a tempting destination, but without Joey’s participation, the 49ers’ defensive line would lack its historic brotherly chemistry.
Frequently Asked Questions
Has Joey Bosa ever expressed interest in retiring?
Indirectly, his brother Nick Bosa suggested Joey may not be focused on football, stating he is “working on his golf game.” However, Joey has not publicly confirmed retirement intentions.
How has the 49ers’ pass rush performed without Joey?
The 49ers finished last season with just 20 sacks, the lowest total in the NFL. Nick Bosa’s ACL injury in Week 3 contributed to this decline, but the team’s overall pass-rush production has been limited.
Could Joey Bosa join the 49ers this season?
Coach Kyle Shanahan indicated the team would welcome Joey but acknowledged that bringing him in “isn’t always possible.” His availability as a free agent and his own decision will determine whether a reunion occurs.
As Joey Bosa weighs his options, the NFL watches closely. Will he extend his Hall of Fame-caliber career, or is this the end of an era? What would his departure mean for the 49ers—and for the league’s pass-rush landscape?