Nick Bosa wasn't at his best on Sunday against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, and it showed. While the San Francisco 49ers defensive end managed to record a sack, he logged only three pressures—his lowest single-game total since Week 5. His 65.4 Pro Football Focus defensive grade was also his lowest of the season.
Bosa played through a hip pointer injury he sustained in practice last week. The injury limited him then and kept him out of the team's first practice this week as they prepare for their Week 11 matchup against the Seattle Seahawks.
"It's probably the worst thing I've had to play through, but hopefully, I'm able to rest it up this week and get back out there," Bosa said before Wednesday's practice. "... I definitely was dealing with some adversity, but you just have to not feel bad for yourself out there. If you're not good enough to go, then don't go. But I felt like I was good enough to give my team a better opportunity."
When asked about his level of concern over Bosa's injury, head coach Kyle Shanahan said, "Not too high. I mean, Bosa was able to get through it last week."
Bosa also reflected on a missed tackle late in the game when he had quarterback Baker Mayfield in his grasp but failed to bring him down. Mayfield managed to keep Bosa at bay and throw a pass to running back Rachaad White for a first down.
THROWING A DART WHILE STIFF ARMING A DEFENDER 💪🎯 pic.twitter.com/Z50BswblJa
— NFL (@NFL) November 10, 2024
"Oh, man, the slow motion makes it look pretty tough," Bosa admitted. "Yeah, it was weird because it was fourth down, so I was thinking more if I hold onto him, I don't think he can make a play. If I try to get him down, maybe go for his legs, then he could possibly get off me and throw it. So I figured he couldn't make a play, but he definitely did."
Bosa was recently fined for a uniform violation after wearing a MAGA hat on the field in support of Donald Trump following the Week 8 win over the Dallas Cowboys. On Sunday, Bosa's post-sack celebration appeared to pay tribute to the president-elect.
When asked about his motivation for the celebration, Bosa simply responded, "I think you know the answer to that question."
Bosa noted that he initially wasn't going to do it but was encouraged by the other defensive linemen on the team. "It was fun," he added.