Nick Bosa is in holdout, pending a contract extension with the San Francisco 49ers. A new deal could mean a record.

In a few days, the San Francisco 49ers will start the 2023 NFL season with a visit to the Pittsburgh Steelers. While there are indications that quarterback Brock Purdy, who has been injured for a long time, will be available, there is still a question mark over Nick Bosa’s availability.

However, this has less to do with his health and more to do with his financial situation. According to media reports from the USA, the 25-year-old is hoping for a long-term contract with the 49ers, which is said to be linked to a salary increase. Currently, Bosa plays under the fifth-year option and earns around 17.9 million US dollars.

That is why the three-time Pro Bowler is currently on holdout and did not take part in the training sessions. On Monday evening, insider Ian Rapoport gave an update on the subject to the “NFL Network”. According to Rapoport, it will take a “significant breakthrough” for the second pick of the 2019 draft to suit up in Pittsburgh.

“This really isn’t about whether he’s going to be the highest-paid pass rusher in the NFL. It sounds to me like they’re already there and they’ve already passed T.J. Watt. Watt makes 28 million a year. It’s about how close he gets to Aaron Donald’s $31 million or if he can get above that,” Rapoport explained.

Should Bosa not be on the training pitch on Wednesday, it “obviously doesn’t look so good that he will be able to take part in this week’s game”. However, both sides are said to be willing to come to an agreement.

49ers safety Hufanga hopes for Bosa return: “Best defensive player in the NFL “

Already last week, head coach Kyle Shanahan and general manager John Lynch spoke out on the issue. Lynch categorically ruled out a trade of Bosa, Shanahan still hoped for a return of Bosa in the final week before the start of the season. As is well known, this has not yet happened.

Recently, Talanoa Hufanga also commented to the San Jose Mercury News. “We have to play with the players that are available. Of course we would like to have Bosa here, that’s a given. He’s the best defensive player in the NFL and you can see that,” the 49ers safety said, but also stressed, “It’s a matter of management, the front office.”

Bosa is not the only star defender currently absent from his team. Super Bowl winner Kansas City Chiefs are also experiencing a similar problem, with defensive tackle Chris Jones insisting on a new contract.