San Francisco 49ers Travel to Australia for NFL Season Opener Against Los Angeles Rams

<p>The San Francisco 49ers are traveling to Australia to participate in the first NFL game on the continent against the Los Angeles Rams, marking the start of the 2026 season.</p><p>Tight end George Kittle and defensive end Nick Bosa, both key players for the team, are on the flight with the rest of the squad, according to multiple reports.</p><p>This is notable as both players have been recovering from injuries. Kittle suffered a torn Achilles during the Wild Card Round against the Philadelphia Eagles on January 11, while Bosa tore his ACL in Week 3 of the previous season and has been dealing with tendinitis throughout training camp.</p><p>In addition to Kittle and Bosa, the 49ers have faced challenges with player depth due to injuries affecting several others, including wide receiver Mike Evans and fullback Kyle Juszczyk. The team also lost wide receiver Ricky Pearsall to a PCL injury.</p><p>Kittle indicated that the trip to Australia could suggest his potential participation in the game, stating, "I would assume so. I mean, that probably makes the most sense. I would assume."</p><p>After practicing on Wednesday, the 49ers are expected to land in Australia on Friday, adjusting for the 17-hour time difference before facing the Rams on September 10 at 8:35 p.m. ET. The kickoff will occur at the Melbourne Cricket Ground, which will be Friday morning at 10:35 a.m. local time.</p><p>The availability of Kittle, Bosa, and other players will be clarified in the days leading up to the game as they continue to practice and prepare for a season where they are considered Super Bowl contenders. The Rams will have MVP quarterback Matthew Stafford returning, and Aaron Donald is also expected to play after coming out of retirement.</p>