The San Francisco 49ers returned to practice on Monday, less than a week before their Week 1 game against the Pittsburgh Steelers.
They did so while their standout defensive end, Nick Bosa, remained out.
Bosa has not been to the 49ers' facilities because he wants a new long-term contract.
The 2019 NFL Draft's second overall choice is set to earn $17.8 million on his fifth-year option, which San Francisco picked up.
It was an easy decision because Bosa has been named to three Pro Bowls and was voted Defensive Player of the Year in 2022 after recording a league-leading 18.5 sacks in 16 games.
However, Bosa is asking remuneration for this type of output. According to The Mercury News, Bosa is poised to sign the highest NFL contract for a non-quarterback in history, worth more than $32 million per year.
Bosa's teammates were questioned about his absence from training camp and preseason games.
It's clear they want him on the field Week 1 and beyond, but with little hope in sight, staying focused on those at practice is all that matters right now.