49ers Eye Bosa Brothers Reunion in 2026

Team looks to pair Joey Bosa with brother Nick on defensive line

Published on Feb. 13, 2026

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The San Francisco 49ers are reportedly exploring the possibility of signing free agent Joey Bosa, the older brother of current 49ers star Nick Bosa, to pair the two dominant pass rushers together on the team's defensive line in 2026.

Why it matters

Reuniting the Bosa brothers would give the 49ers one of the most formidable defensive fronts in the NFL, potentially elevating their defense to new heights and making them a top Super Bowl contender. However, signing Joey Bosa would require a significant investment in free agency.

The details

Joey Bosa, a three-time Pro Bowler, is set to become a free agent in 2026 after his current contract with the Los Angeles Chargers expires. The 49ers are reportedly interested in bringing him in to play alongside his younger brother Nick, who has emerged as one of the league's premier pass rushers since being drafted by San Francisco in 2019.

  • Joey Bosa's current contract with the Chargers expires in 2026.
  • The 49ers are expected to pursue Joey Bosa in free agency that year.

The players

Joey Bosa

A three-time Pro Bowl defensive end who currently plays for the Los Angeles Chargers.

Nick Bosa

The younger Bosa brother, a star defensive end for the San Francisco 49ers.

San Francisco 49ers

The NFL team that is reportedly interested in signing Joey Bosa to pair him with his brother Nick on the defensive line.

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What they’re saying

“Pairing the Bosa brothers together would be a dream scenario for the 49ers. They would instantly have one of the most dominant defensive lines in the league.”

— Analyst, NFL Analyst (Local Memphis)

What’s next

The 49ers will need to clear significant salary cap space in order to afford Joey Bosa's expected high-priced free agent contract in 2026.

The takeaway

The potential Bosa brothers reunion in San Francisco would create a formidable pass-rushing duo, but the 49ers will have to carefully manage their salary cap to make it happen.