Chiefs vs. Raiders: NaVorro Bowman will “probably” play
By Matt Conner
The Oakland Raiders will hope that NaVorro Bowman can help add to their front seven in his very first game since signing with the team.
Just a few days after signing with the Oakland Raiders, NaVorro Bowman will be suiting up to play at least some snaps on defense as Jack Del Rio’s team hopes to stave off the Kansas City Chiefs on Thursday Night Football. Bowman arrived earlier this week after being released by the San Francisco 49ers.
Despite his release, Bowman insists he has “a lot of juice left” and the Raiders certainly hope so. The three-time Pro Bowler is the latest addition to the Raiders front seven and Jack Del Rio says he’s looked good enough to start playing immediately as the Raiders face a must-win against the Chiefs to stay relevant early in the 2017 regular season.
"“He’s looked good. He’s a veteran. He understands ball. We’ve not 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.”"
More from Arrowhead Addict
- Former Chiefs cornerback in legal trouble in Las Vegas
- Chiefs Kingdom: Get ready to break contract news
- Chiefs news: Travis Kelce wants to host fan ‘chug-off’ in Germany
- Podcast: Breaking down the Chiefs biggest roster battles
- KC Chiefs send Dave Merritt to NFL coaching accelerator
After only playing in four games last season, Bowman has returned to start five games so far for the 49ers. He has 37 total tackles and 1 pass defense. In years past, Bowman has been a force both in coverage and in rushing the passer. He has 12.5 career sacks and 4 interceptions with 28 career passes defended as well. More than anything, he’s a very physical tackler who excelled in the middle for the Niners during Jim Harbaugh’s run of success in San Francisco.
Bowman will certainly be motivated to show the Niners what they lost and to reward the Raiders for their belief in him, but the Chiefs will also face him on a short week as he adjusts to new schemes, plays and teammates. Bowman has only faced the Chiefs once in his career, way back in 2010 in a 31-10 loss in which he had 4 tackles.