Where 49ers' Nick Bosa ranks among NFL's top edge rushers

In 2024, for only the second time in his NFL career—excluding the 2020 season cut short by injury—San Francisco 49ers star edge rusher Nick Bosa failed to reach double-digit sacks. His nine sacks still led the team, but the 49ers' pass rush struggled to consistently pressure opposing quarterbacks, contributing to a disappointing six-win season.

This offseason, the 49ers' roster underwent a significant overhaul, particularly along the defensive line. The team moved on from key veterans Javon Hargrave, Maliek Collins, and Leonard Floyd, replacing them with promising rookies Mykel Williams, Alfred Collins, and CJ West. Additionally, San Francisco traded for veteran pass rusher Bryce Huff in hopes of reigniting their defensive front.

The expectation in Santa Clara is that this revamped unit will create more favorable matchups and opportunities for Bosa to return to his dominant form and reestablish himself as one of the NFL's premier pass rushers.

So, where does Bosa rank among the league's top edge defenders heading into the 2025 season? According to ESPN's Jeremy Fowler, who surveyed NFL executives, coaches, and scouts, Bosa ranks No. 5 among all edge rushers.

Fowler acknowledged that while Bosa's 19.5 sacks over the past two seasons may not reflect elite production, his disruptive presence on the field remains undeniable.

"His leverage, explosiveness, power, and polished rush arsenal are unmatched," one NFL personnel director told Fowler. "He has the same rush moves as [brother] Joey Bosa but with better play strength to win in a variety of ways."

Bosa's impact was further reflected in his advanced metrics. He recorded a 22.2% pass rush win rate, nearly a four-point improvement from his 2023 campaign.

Since entering the NFL in 2019, Bosa is one of only four players with at least 60 sacks and 10 forced fumbles, joining an elite group that includes T.J. Watt, Myles Garrett, and Trey Hendrickson.

"His 0.70 'get-off' in 2024 was the quickest in his career and tied Garrett for the best of the season," Fowler added. "Since 2021, Bosa has generated 121 quick pressures (under 2.5 seconds), the fifth most in the NFL during that span."

Despite a dip in sack totals, Bosa is still widely regarded as one of the NFL's most impactful edge rushers. With a retooled defensive line and upgraded support around him, the 49ers' star pass rusher could be poised for a strong bounce-back season.