As 49ers fans know, defensive end Nick Bosa is having a monster season after missing most of last year with a torn ACL. His incredible play has the NFL streets talking about a potential NFL Comeback Player of the Year award, but that’s just the start of what some prominent league observers are saying.
Most notably: Hall of Fame talk, anyone?
But first, let’s take a look at Bosa’s 2021 campaign thus far. He’s racked up 15 quarterback sacks through 14 games, notching 43 total tackles, 15 sacks, 18 tackles for loss, 29 quarterback hits, one pass breakup, and four forced fumbles.
Here’s a look at some of his latest work. He helped the 49ers physically outmatch the Falcons for a decisive win on Sunday with this sack and forced fumble.
Since he played just two games last year, Bosa is a natural choice for NFL Comeback Player of the Year, as noted by NBC Sports’ Chris Simms.
But for some, Bosa might deserve more. How about Defensive Player of the Year?
Bosa is certainly deserving of either of those prestigious awards. But NFL Hall of Famer Michael Irvin went a step further while on the air at 95.7 The Game in San Francisco.
“A lot of people have the gift of talent, but when you get that rare dude who has that talent AND the hunger…There’s no doubt he’ll be a Hall of Famer. There’s no doubt in my mind.”–Ex-NFL wide receiver and Hall of Famer Michael Irvin
95.7 The Game
Irvin zoomed straight to the Hall of Fame when talking Bosa. That’s certainly notable. Irvin knows what it takes since he has a gold jacket of his own. It’s incredibly high praise, especially considering Bosa is just in his third season.
But I think Irvin is clearly correct. If Bosa continues to terrorize quarterbacks for the remainder of his career, he’s guaranteed induction into the HOF. That’s a big if, certainly. But Bosa’s health is all that’s held him back thus far. And he’s clearly shown he can bounce back from any serious ailment he encounters.
Still, let’s not get so far ahead of ourselves. Hall of Fame talk is fun, but it’s more fun to watch Bosa play in the here and now. There will be plenty of time to discuss the HOF later, it appears. Plus, Bosa is in line for recognition this season, including a possible return to the Super Bowl in the red and gold.
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