Linebacker NaVorro Bowman
The Oakland Raiders welcomed the newest member of their team Monday afternoon, as former San Francisco 49ers linebacker NaVorro Bowman signed with the Silver and Black. In his seven seasons with the Niners, No. 53 totaled 709 tackles, 12.5 sacks, four interceptions, and one touchdown, also making three Pro Bowls and four First-Team All-Pro selections. Following his first day with his new club, Bowman took the podium to speak with reporters about joining the Raiders.
Here are the quick hits from his media session:
Bowman was concise in what went into his decision to join the Raiders.
"I'm only 29 years old and I still have a lot of juice left in me, that's why."
He recapped what the last few days have been like for him.
"A little bittersweet. To get all of the farewells and the fan love, things like that. Saying bye to my teammates was one of the hardest things. Trying to explain this to my kids, that was pretty tough. It was a good experience, to reminisce about what I've done so far and where I was. Ready to start a new chapter."
The former Penn State Nittany Lion shared what his conversation with Head Coach Jack Del Rio was like earlier Monday.
"It was really upfront. Letting me know their position and how bad they want me. Exactly what he wanted to get out of me coming here and being a presence for this defense. Being more vocal, getting guys to understand the urgency to be really good at the NFL level."
He discussed what it will be like to play with defensive end Khalil Mack and linebacker Bruce Irvin.
"I feel that it's going to allow me to have a security blanket understanding the defenses. The ball shouldn't get outside. It should be funneled back right to me. When you have that trust and you know guys are on the edge and taking their job as serious as you, you can play fast, you can go out there and make plays that you need to make."
Bowman touched on his ability to mentor younger players, and how he can help them develop.
"I've always enjoyed teaching and giving my knowledge to anyone. Young guys, they tend to think a lot when they're at this level. I'll be able to slow it down for them and it's always easier to hear from a player than a coach, just because you're a player and you're in the same shoes as them. Coaches kind of make you a little more intimidated and nervous. I'm bringing that ease to the scheme and trying to get everybody on the same page so we can win."
