San Francisco, CA – March 25, 2026. NBC Sports Bay Area has revealed the reason why the San Francisco 49ers’ trade for Joey Bosa has yet to be finalized.
While the 49ers have the financial capacity to sign Bosa, a key factor still hasn’t been resolved. That factor is the strategy of defensive coordinator Raheem Morris.
Morris, who recently joined the 49ers, has clear views on the type of players he wants in his defense. Bosa does not fully fit the profile Morris is looking for.
Morris prefers edge players who can drop into coverage, not just rush the QB. While Bosa is talented, he lacks this ability in Morris' defensive scheme.
According to NBC Sports Bay Area, Morris is seeking edge rushers who can drop into coverage, something Bosa doesn't excel at within the system.
“I don’t see why Morris would want Bosa,” Grant Cohn said, analyzing Morris' strategy and the mismatch between Bosa and his defensive system.
Morris has emphasized the need for edge rushers who can perform a variety of tasks within his defensive scheme. This flexibility is crucial for the success of the 49ers' defense.
Bosa, despite his strength and ability to attack the QB, doesn’t meet Morris’ expectations, which has caused the delay in this potential trade.
“Raheem Morris wants guys who can drop into coverage, not just rush once a season, but two or three times a game,” Cohn added. This makes Bosa’s potential fit with the team unlikely.
However, Bosa remains an attractive option. He recorded 5 sacks and 5 forced fumbles in the 2025 season. His pass-rushing ability is impressive.
Nevertheless, with Morris' request for coverage-capable players, the 49ers might look for a better-suited player who can contribute to the system more effectively.
This situation leaves 49ers fans waiting for clarity. They are eager for the front office to make a definitive move regarding Bosa's future.
“Maybe Nick Bosa is the only one in the Bosa family who can understand why Morris would require this kind of player,” Cohn continued, speculating on Nick Bosa's potential thoughts on the situation.
The final decision on Bosa will depend on 49ers' long-term strategy. They need players who can effectively cover multiple times during a game, and Bosa may not fit this need.
The delay in finalizing the trade could be due to ongoing negotiations regarding Bosa’s role within Morris' defense. His position remains uncertain.
While there are other teams interested in Bosa, the 49ers may want to adjust their plans to build the most effective defensive lineup possible.
Although Bosa is still a potential option, adapting to Morris’ requirements is something both sides will need to discuss further before making a final decision.
“I think Bosa could contribute a lot to the 49ers, but Morris’ strategy makes it difficult for him to be involved,” Cohn concluded on Bosa's future with San Francisco.
The final decision will depend on whether the 49ers can resolve these tactical issues. If not, they may have to look for other options.
However, signing Bosa remains a strong possibility. While not finalized yet, adding Bosa to the roster is still highly anticipated by the 49ers.
