Potential Landing Spots For Navorro Bowman

Story posted March 13, 2018 in CommRadio, Sports by Jason Marcus

With the start of free-agency just a couple of days away, the entire landscape of the NFL is about to change. Within these changes, plenty of veteran players are sure to find themselves in unfamiliar uniforms next season.
One such player, is former Penn State linebacker Navorro Bowman. Bowman, who spent the majority of his all-pro career with the 49ers, was traded last season to the Oakland Raiders where he finished the season with 58 tackles in just 11 games. Despite being one of the top available linebackers, Bowman may have fewer offers than others due to his age. However, lets look at like the top 5 locations the former Nittany Lion could find himself come the start of the 2018 season.

1. Washington Redskins

Last season, the Redskins ranked dead last in total run defense with just over 134 yards allowed per game. While they will most likely look to solve this issue through the draft, Bowman would instantly add some much need physicality up front. Bringing him in to pair with Ryan Kerrigan and a young rookie would be a smart decision if the team wants to compete for a division title and more.

2. Buffalo Bills

Despite making the playoffs for the first time since 1999 last season, the Buffalo Bills seem to lack an identity overall. While their secondary performed well, there front seven was a different story. Veteran defensive tackle Kyle Williams anchored the defensive line once again, however it wasn’t enough to keep them from being the fourth worst run defense. The trade of Marcell Dareus may have had something to do with that, but it goes without saying that they will have to improve this season if they have hopes of getting back to the post season. Like the Redskins, they will have to use the draft to fill some of these holds, but there is no doubt that adding a proven player like Bowman could be the first step in getting to where they want to be.

3. Cincinnati Bengals

On paper, the Bengals should have been far better at stopping the run than they were last season. With talented young players such as Michael Johnson, Vincent Rey and Vontaze Bufict, the Bengals seem to be close to having a fierce front seven like the ones in recent years. However, what the Bengal really need is leadership. Adding a respected locker room leader like Bowman makes a lot of sense for both sides.

4. Indianapolis Colts

The Colts are in desperate need of a playmaker on defense. With nobody on their roster looking like they are going to take over the leadership role, adding a veteran like Bowman would be a step in the right direction.

5. Oakland Raiders

After being traded by the 49ers in week four last year, Bowman came into Oakland and started producing right away. He visibly took the Raiders defensive front from average to one of the best in the league. Bowman has already publicly stated that he would like to stay in the bay area, so I wouldn’t rule out him re-signing just yet.

Jason Marcus is a junior majoring in telecommunications. To contact, email him at jasmarcus320@gmail.com.