Days After Signing With Raiders, NaVorro Bowman Expected to Play Vs Chiefs

ALAMEDA – NaVorro Bowman was a sponge this week, absorbing the Raiders defense as quickly as possible.

The veteran inside linebacker signed with the Raiders Monday afternoon and did enough to play Thursday night's pivotal home game against Kansas City.

That's a huge plus for a Raiders team looking to snap a four-game losing streak. Bowman should be able to help right away despite being new to the scheme.

"He's a veteran. He understands ball," Raiders head coach Jack Del Rio said Wednesday. "We haven't tried to install the entire playbook, but specific game plans and things. He's had a good week. Even though it's a short week, we feel good and he'll play."

He'll probably start at inside linebacker and play the base defense as least. While many have criticized his speed and coverage skills diminished from major injuries, Bowman remains a sure tackler who can provide solid on-field leadership.

Veteran savvy and natural ability should carry Bowman while he masters a new scheme, allowing him to make the immediate impact required with the Raiders reeling at 2-4.

"He is very instinctive," Del Rio said. "He's a veteran guy that's been there before. He understands what it looks like to lineup against a good football team and help us win."

Bowman's fresh and healthy, a step above his others at his position. Inside linebackers Cory James (knee), Marquel Lee (ankle) and Nicholas Morrow (ankle) are all questionable heading into Thursday's game.

He has also been a willing teacher to a group of inside linebackers featuring a second-year pro and three rookies.

"They're just soaking it up," Del Rio said. "They'll ask, ‘When do you lift? How often do you lift? When do you meet? When do you cover this?' It's good stuff to have for a really young group."

In other injury news, right tackle Marshall Newhouse is out, leaving Vadal Alexander to start in his spot. David Sharpe should be the swing tackle in reserve.

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