Latest On LB NaVorro Bowman

If you were surprised when the 49ers released veteran linebacker NaVorro Bowman yesterday, you weren’t alone. Some of the player’s former teammates told Mindi Bach of NBC Sports Bay Area that they were blindsided by the move.

“I’m shocked. I didn’t see the writing on the wall,” said lineman Daniel Kilgore, who had been teammates with Bowman for seven years. “It’s tough, man. We spent a lot of time together. Our families have spent a lot of time together.”

“I think everybody was pretty surprised,” echoed offensive tackle Joe Staley. “I have nothing but positive things to say about NaVorro and the leader he’s been and the player he’s been here. He’s a great person. A hell of a teammate.”

After having approached Bowman about a reduced roll, both sides began seeking a new destination for the linebacker. While the 49ers reportedly had a deal lined up, the destination wasn’t appealing to Bowman. Ultimately, the team decided to appease the 29-year-old and release him instead. Coach Kyle Shanahan understands that some of his players may not understand the transaction, but he hopes they recognize that it was done for the betterment of the team.

“I hope they respect what our intentions are, and that no matter how hard it is, we are going to do what is best for this team,” Shanahan said. “I know whenever you are talking to a group of guys that lost a brother in that way, a good friend to everybody, it’s always a tough conversation. But I think our team, we’ve got a strong team, and I think our team will respond.”

Let’s check out some more notes pertaining to Bowman…

  • Bowman is apparently generating plenty of interest. NFL.com’s Ian Rapoport says (via Twitter) that as a result, the player isn’t expected to sign any later than Monday. The reporter adds that the release will be made official later today.
  • The Broncos aren’t among the team that have expressed interest in the linebacker, reports Troy Renck of ABC Denver7 (via Twitter). A source told the reporter that the team is “not in the market” for Bowman, which makes sense when you consider their linebacker depth. Even with Shane Ray out for the time being, Denver is still holding eight linebackers on their active roster.
  • Earlier this week, Matt Maiocco of NBC Sports Bay Area observed Bowman’s drop in production. The reporter noted that the linebacker “appears to have slowed down dramatically, and the coaching staff has determined he is a liability in coverage.”
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