SANTA CLARA, Calif. _ Nick Bosa's outstanding rookie training camp came to a dramatic pause Wednesday, when the 49ers top draft pick sustained an ankle injury.
An MRI revealed only a sprain rather than a fracture, as was the case with a similar ankle injury to cornerback Jason Verrett, NFL Network reported.
Defensive coordinator Robert Saleh, shortly after Bosa walked off the field on his own accord, said: "I think he's all right. I still haven't heard from the performance staff, but I don't think there's anything to worry about."
The 49ers season opener is not until Sept. 8 at Tampa Bay, so Bosa and Verrett likely have enough time to heal an ankle injury, even if Bosa's costs him his first exhibition season. Knee and Achilles injuries basically wiped out Verrett's past three seasons with the Chargers.
The 49ers, plagued the past two seasons by poor health, had even more injuries arise Wednesday. Arik Armstead was a late scratch with a calf issue and Ronald Blair did not practice because of a groin injury. Defensive end Dee Ford has missed practice the past week after requiring treatment last weekend for knee tendinitis.
Bosa's right ankle got hurt in a run-play pileup near the line of scrimmage. The 49ers medical staff immediately came to his aid, and general manager John Lynch also approached to observe.
After a few tense minutes, Bosa headed with trainers to the locker room for further evaluation.
His right foot, ankle and shin were initially examined. It did not appear there was any concern with his right knee, in which he tore his anterior cruciate ligament four years ago while a senior at St. Thomas Aquinas High in Fort Lauderdale, Fla.
Entering Wednesday's 10th practice of training camp, Bosa had looked phenomenal, more than holding his own against starting offensive tackles Joe Staley and Mike McGlinchey.
"He's made some good plays. I mean, he's just a savvy rookie," quarterback Jimmy Garoppolo said. "To be able to play the run and pass the way he does, it's impressive."
Bosa got drafted No. 2 overall after missing most of his final season at Ohio State after abdominal surgery. He strained a hamstring on the 49ers second practice of organized team activities in May and sat out the remainder of the offseason program.
With three defensive ends out, the 49ers bumped Pro Bowl defensive tackle DeForest Buckner on the edge, but Saleh says that is not a consideration for their base defense during the season.
"We're a little thin at defensive line with injuries, but guys are stepping up and making sure no one is overloaded with reps," Saleh added.
