San Francisco, September 23, 2025
In a stunning turn of events following the season-ending injury that has sidelined Nick Bosa for all of the 2025 NFL campaign, the San Francisco 49ers’ defensive star has publicly suggested a familiar face to step in and fill his absence.
After an MRI confirmed a torn ACL in his knee suffered during Sunday’s (Sept. 21, 2025) win over the Arizona Cardinals, Bosa is set to undergo surgery and miss at least 9–12 months, according to ESPN and team sources. This marks the second ACL tear of his career — the first came in 2019, costing him nearly his entire rookie season. Despite the setback, Bosa will continue contributing behind the scenes, offering strategic support to the coaching staff and teammates during his recovery. At the same time, he personally recommended to head coach Robert Saleh that the team bring back former teammate and Pro Bowl standout Arik Armstead, currently with the Jacksonville Jaguars, to reinforce the defense.
Bosa — the heartbeat of San Francisco’s defense — didn’t just express disappointment at missing the season. He also stressed the importance of maintaining the culture that has defined the 49ers. “Arik knows our system inside and out. He’s been here, fought alongside us, and understands how to keep this defense strong,” Bosa told reporters shortly after his MRI results were revealed. “I told Coach Saleh that Arik is the best fit to step in and keep the rhythm right now. He not only plays at a high level, but he inspires the entire team.”
Armstead, who played nine seasons with the 49ers (2015–2023) before joining Jacksonville, is known for his versatility and durability. Over his San Francisco career he recorded 33.5 sacks, 302 tackles, and 88 quarterback pressures. He wasn’t just a menacing pass rusher but also a stout run defender — highlighted by his performance against the Cardinals in 2019, when fans nicknamed him the “Armstead Anchor.” He shared the field with Bosa during some of the team’s peak years, including two Super Bowl runs (LIV in 2020 and LVIII in 2024). His familiarity with Saleh’s system makes him a natural candidate to return.
From a tactical standpoint, Armstead’s return would be seamless. He knows the 49ers’ 4-3 scheme and could quickly build chemistry with Leonard Floyd as well as newer faces like Yetur Gross-Matos and Bryce Huff. His ability to line up both at left defensive end (LDE) and defensive tackle (DT) would alleviate pressure on a unit now missing Bosa, who leads all active 49ers with 54.5 career sacks. Armstead’s presence would bolster the pass rush while also strengthening the run defense — an area that looked vulnerable after Bosa exited Sunday’s game.
Logistically, reacquiring Armstead would require negotiating with the Jaguars, where he is in the second season of a three-year deal. But given the 49ers’ relatively flexible cap situation and Armstead’s strong relationship with the organization, general manager John Lynch could pursue the move without sacrificing major draft capital. Compared to signing a top All-Pro free agent, Armstead represents both a cost-effective and efficient solution.
Emotionally, Bosa’s proposal goes beyond X’s and O’s — it’s about reinforcing the culture of the locker room. A Bay Area native, Armstead has long been beloved by 49ers fans for his relentless effort and clutch playoff performances. His return would inject energy into Levi’s Stadium at a time when the team needs a rallying point to overcome the shock of losing Bosa. “Arik is family,” Bosa emphasized. “He knows how we fight, and he’ll bring that back right away.”
Even while sidelined, Bosa has pledged to remain involved. With his experience and influence, he is expected to aid the coaching staff in film study and help mentor younger players like Gross-Matos and Huff to ensure the defense stays sharp. His call to bring Armstead back reflects his leadership — stepping up for the team even when he cannot play.
The 49ers aren’t looking for flashy signings; they are looking for stability and effectiveness to keep their Super Bowl hopes alive in January. With Bosa’s voice behind the move and his tactical support from the sidelines, the potential return of Arik Armstead would not only be a practical replacement but also a cultural boost to a team that has consistently been in the championship conversation. Should the deal go through, Armstead could become the missing piece that helps the 49ers push forward in this challenging season.
