The market for free-agent linebacker NaVorro Bowman is already heating up.
NFL Network Insider Ian Rapoport reported Sunday on NFL GameDay Morning that Bowman and the Oakland Raiders have mutual interest, and a visit is expected on Monday, per a source informed of the situation. After that, Bowman is expected to visit the Dallas Cowboys, Rapoport added.
The Raiders could use aid in their leaky second-level. Oakland owns the eighth-worst rush defense in the NFL through five weeks, allowing 124.6 yards per game on the ground, and the 30th ranked third-down defense.
The San Francisco 49ers cut Bowman on Friday. The 29-year-old linebacker was set to see a reduced role with rookie Reuben Foster set to take over. After initially requesting a trade, Bowman said he'd accept diminished duties. General manager John Lynch, however, felt that once a player has the mentality he wants out, it is time to move on.
A short trip across the Bay makes sense for both Bowman and the Raiders. While the linebacker's play has dipped this season -- particularly in coverage -- he would bring a veteran with pedigree to the middle of a defense that needs to improve if Oakland is to claw its way back into the playoff picture.