49ers Training Camp Delivers Mixed Bag: Bosa Sits, Injuries Hit RB Room, Young Receiver Shines

The San Francisco 49ers’ preseason camp has unfolded with the familiar rhythm of highs and lows that come with the early days of preparation for the NFL season. From star absences to unexpected injuries and emerging playmakers, the first week has offered a revealing snapshot of where the team stands as it chases another deep postseason run.

Bosa’s Absence Looms Large

The most glaring storyline out of Santa Clara is the absence of defensive superstar Nick Bosa. The reigning Defensive Player of the Year has not taken the field yet, held out as a precautionary measure to manage his health and workload. While head coach Kyle Shanahan has expressed confidence that Bosa will be ready when it matters, his absence is still notable.

Bosa’s impact on the team is undeniable—his presence not only energizes the defensive line but also creates opportunities for the secondary by collapsing pockets and forcing rushed throws. During drills, the lack of his trademark explosiveness off the edge has been evident. The 49ers are leaning on Drake Jackson and Clelin Ferrell to handle first-team reps, giving the coaching staff a chance to evaluate depth options.

Though Shanahan has maintained that the team is simply “managing the long season ahead,” Bosa’s absence has sparked quiet concern among fans eager to see him dominate from Day 1.

Backfield Depth Tested by Early Injuries

The running back room has taken a hit early in camp, threatening to shake up the offensive rhythm. Veteran depth pieces and younger backs have found themselves sidelined, forcing the 49ers to mix and match lineups during team periods.

The most concerning setback involves Elijah Mitchell, who has battled recurring injury issues throughout his career. Mitchell suffered a minor tweak during practice and has been limited since, leaving Christian McCaffrey as the clear focal point but increasing pressure on backups to perform.

The 49ers’ system thrives on having multiple capable rushers, not only to execute Shanahan’s diverse run schemes but also to preserve McCaffrey’s health for the long haul. With a 17-game season and championship aspirations, San Francisco cannot afford a thin backfield entering September. Rookie Isaiah Davis and second-year runner Jordan Mason have absorbed extra reps, but their performances will determine whether the team needs to explore free-agent options before Week 1.

Wide Receiver Corps Sees Young Talent Rise

While injuries have clouded some position groups, the 49ers’ receiving corps has offered a bright spot, with one young pass catcher making a strong impression. Ronnie Bell, a late-round pick from Michigan, has emerged as a standout during early practices.

Bell’s sharp route-running, reliable hands, and quick adjustment to the speed of the NFL have caught the attention of both coaches and teammates. During red-zone drills, he has showcased the ability to win contested catches and create separation, hinting at a potential role behind established stars Deebo Samuel and Brandon Aiyuk.

Quarterbacks have praised Bell’s consistency, with Brock Purdy noting his ability to be “exactly where he needs to be” during timing-based routes. In a room loaded with talent, Bell’s rise could complicate roster decisions but also strengthen one of the league’s most dynamic supporting casts.

Purdy’s Steady Progress Headlines QB Play

Amid the defensive adjustments and offensive reshuffling, Brock Purdy continues to command the huddle with the poise of a quarterback who defied all odds last season. Coming off elbow surgery and a storybook rookie run, Purdy has looked sharp in intermediate passing drills and continues to build chemistry with his receivers.

Coaches have highlighted his quick decision-making and improved arm strength, while also giving Sam Darnold and Trey Lance plenty of reps. Darnold’s veteran presence provides insurance, but the early practices suggest that Purdy remains firmly entrenched as QB1 heading into the season.

Balancing Optimism and Caution

Shanahan and general manager John Lynch have both emphasized the importance of patience in evaluating early camp performance. The 49ers are a team built with depth, and the current injuries—while inconvenient—are far from season-altering if managed correctly.

Still, the loss of backfield depth, combined with Bosa’s ongoing absence, is a reminder of the fragility of an NFL roster. The coming weeks will determine whether San Francisco needs to bring in reinforcements or whether the next-man-up mentality can carry them into the preseason healthy and confident.

As for the positives, the emergence of young talents like Ronnie Bell reflects the front office’s knack for finding value in later draft rounds. His rise adds another layer of intrigue to a team already known for its dynamic offensive playmakers.

With preseason games looming, the 49ers will continue to navigate a careful balance of ramping up intensity without overextending key players. The coaching staff’s primary focus is clear: get Bosa back into the mix, stabilize the running back situation, and keep their promising young contributors on an upward trajectory.