Why the New England Patriots should sign Navorro Bowman

The 29-year-old linebacker was released on Friday. Should the New England Patriots take a chance on him?

Veteran Linebacker Navorro Bowman was released by the 49ers on Friday. The move comes after reports of Bowman being traded were swirling around the league but the team was unable to find the right deal. Seems like just the kind of player the New England Patriots should take a look at.

Bowman has seen his role decrease this season as the San Francisco 49ers drafted Reuben Foster in the first round of this years draft. Also a reason for his departure was a decline in his defensive snaps.

Last week versus the Indianapolis Colts, Bowman only played 58 of the teams 76 defensive plays. This is a drastic cut seeing that he is used to being on the field for essentially every defensive play.

GLENDALE, AZ – OCTOBER 01: Middle linebacker NaVorro Bowman /

Bowman was a beast on the field a couple of years ago. He would average around 140 total tackles and was able to get into the backfield with ease.

Then in 2014 Bowman suffered a terrible knee injury that took him out for the entire season and in 2016 Bowman ended up back on the IR.

Is the risk worth it?

The New England Patriots defense obviously needs improvement. They are the worst defense in the league giving up close to 450 yards a game. The Patriots’ defense have been able to make Alex Smith and Jameis Winston look like some of the best quarterbacks in the league.

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The defense has had issues getting pressure in the backfield. Deatrich Wise and Trey Flowers have been bright spots in the front seven for the Patriots but they could definitely use some help. Wise has three sacks and seven total tackles while Flowers has 3.5 sacks with 22 total tackles.

Bowman was a great player but he is approaching 30 and his injuries have taken a toll on him. The Patriots need to improve on defense but they shouldn’t go after Bowman.

There is no doubt that Bowman brings experience and football I.Q. but the Patriots need to give their young guys a chance to build and gain experience. If you bring in Bowman they will be spending more time on the bench.

Also, with the recent efforts of David Harris I don’t think we should sign another linebacker that is about to turn 30. Bowman’s best attribute is being able to pass on his knowledge of the game to players. The Patriots already have that with Harris.

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Bowman will always be remembered for his great plays early in his career. The Patriots need to remember that those days are long gone. They should not make a mistake and try to sign him.

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