Back in July, 49ers linebacker NaVorro Bowman was eager for his comeback season.
After sitting out all of 2014 following a terrible knee injury in the 2013 NFC Championship Game, Bowman pronounced himself in good shape and ready to roll as the Niners began their training camp.
He was just waiting for one thing to declare himself all the way back.
“A hit,” he told reporters. “Yeah, that’s probably the only mental thing that’s on my mind. If I deliver the hit I want to deliver, once I do that, I’ll be ready.”
Five months later, Bowman has delivered hundreds of hits from his inside linebacker spot. He’s been one of the few positive stories to come out of a 49ers team that is 4-10 heading into its final two games, including this Sunday’s in Michigan against the Lions (10 a.m. kickoff).
And on Tuesday, Bowman made the comeback complete, earning a selection to the Pro Bowl. In his sixth season, the former Penn State star will be going to his third Pro Bowl.
Bowman leads the 49ers – and is tied for the NFL lead – in tackles, with 136. He’s also had two sacks and two passes defensed.
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Bowman still may not be back to his pre-injury form – it still appears his lateral movement and quickness aren’t there yet – but he showed in 2015 that even at something less than 100 percent he’s terrific.
Tweeted Bowman: “Thank you to all the fans and my peers for voting me to my 3rd Pro Bowl. #MON5T3R”
Bowman had several big games this season, including against the Giants (16 tackles), Ravens (15 tackles) and Bears (14 tackles).
The only other 49er selected for the Pro Bowl was left offensive tackle Joe Staley, for the fifth time. Left guard Alex Boone was selected as an alternate.
