What happened: The San Francisco 49ers have decided against placing Nick Bosa on injured reserve, according to a league source. The defensive end pulled his calf muscle during Thursday's practice and is expected to miss a few weeks, but will avoid an extended mandatory absence.
Why it matters: The 49ers are reportedly running low on available injured reserve spots, a dynamic that factored into keeping their top pass rusher on the active roster. Avoiding an IR stint provides the team with the flexibility to return Bosa to the field as soon as he is cleared.
By the numbers: San Francisco carries a 4-1 record and a four-game winning streak into Sunday, supported by a defense that has surrendered just 13.6 points per game this season.
What to watch: The 49ers will adjust their defensive front to absorb the loss of Bosa, starting with Sunday's scheduled matchup against the Arizona Cardinals.