SANTA CLARA — Nick Bosa proclaimed himself “a Niner for life” on Friday, after officially signing a five-year contract extension through the 2028 season.
Bosa agreed to the historic contract Wednesday to become the NFL’s highest-paid non-quarterback at $34 million a year. He was set to earn $17.9 million this season on his rookie contract’s final year, and the hotly negotiated extension reportedly is worth up to $170 million.
Bosa and the 49ers will fly out after Friday’s practice to Pittsburgh for Sunday’s season opener against the Steelers.
With quill pen in hand, Bosa signed his deal upstairs in the 49ers’ offices alongside general manager John Lynch, with Bosa then pandering to the team’s social-media cameras and saying: “Faithful, just signed. I’m so excited to be a Niner for life. Let’s go win as many rings as we can. Let’s go.”
As the reigning NFL Defensive Player of the Year, Bosa turns 26 when the 49ers play at the Minnesota Vikings on Monday night, Oct. 23.
Lynch, appearing on KNBR 680-AM< echoed that “Niner for life” line while discussing Bosa’s slow-moving and at times frustrating contract negotiations. Encouragement along the way came from former Warriors general manager Bob Myers.
“Little shoutout to Bob Myers my good friend. There was one point when we were at an impasse, and Bob called with Paraag (Marathe, the 49ers’ chief contract negotiator) in my office and he just had really good counsel,” Lynch said on KNBR. “It kind of kept us goin’.”
Related Articles
49ers’ Colton McKivitz has a Bosa-like challenge in Steelers’ Watt
49ers practice report: Nick Bosa works on side after historic deal
49ers fans: Awesome new food choices for 2023-24 Levi’s Stadium season
10 great books about California football, from the 49ers to Cal and De La Salle
Nick Bosa signing: How 49ers players have fared after signing a megadeal
Bosa suited up for practice Thursday but, during the 20-minute media window, was seen doing only individual conditioning drills while shadowed by head strength and conditioning coach Dustin Perry.