49ers vs. Buccaneers: 5 players to watch in 2019 regular-season opener

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COLUMBUS, OH – SEPTEMBER 1: Nick Bosa #97 of the Ohio State Buckeyes celebrates after recovering a fumble in the end zone for a touchdown in the second quarter against the Oregon State Beavers at Ohio Stadium on September 1, 2018 in Columbus, Ohio. (Photo by Jamie Sabau/Getty Images) /

No. 5: EDGE Nick Bosa

Rookies always garner attention early on, especially high-profile ones. And the 49ers’ top pick from this year’s draft, EDGE Nick Bosa, is no different.

Yes, there’s a question whether or not Bosa will be available for Week 1, as he suffered an ankle sprain in training camp. But there are excellent signs the Ohio State standout will be available to kick off the regular season.

If he’s available, Bosa should have more than his share of opportunities against a questionable Buccaneers offensive line.

Pro Football Focus ranked the Bucs O-line 24th overall entering this season, and this unit looked particularly shaky during Tampa Bay’s preseason bouts, allowing 18 sacks over four games. While preseason narratives aren’t particularly informative, it’s certainly something to monitor.

Fortunately for Bosa, he won’t be asked to shoulder San Francisco’s pass rush. Complemented by fellow defensive linemen DeForest Buckner and Dee Ford, who also missed the preseason with a knee injury, the Niners pass rush should be at full strength.

Fans will finally get to see what this unit could look like at full bore, with Bosa being an integral part of it.