SANTA CLARA – When the 49ers get back on the field later this month, all indications are that All-Pro linebacker NaVorro Bowman will be available to participate.
The 49ers can begin football work with coaches on the field April 20. The following week, the 49ers have a voluntary minicamp, allowable because of the new coaching staff. And coach Jim Tomsula said on Friday he has gotten every indication that Bowman will be allowed to take part.
When asked if Bowman would be able to participate in the minicamp, Tomsula said, “Yeah, from what I understand. I didn’t ask that specifically, but Bow’s going into it. When we can get on the field, Bow’s going out on the field.”
[RELATED: 49ers confident in Bowman's recovery]
Bowman missed all of last season after sustaining a significant knee injury, including an ACL tear in his left knee, during the NFC Championship game in January 2014 in Seattle. He spent the entire season rehabilitating the injury. He did not sustain a setback, general manager Trent Baalke has said. He never took part in a practice.
Tomsula said he received a positive report on the progress of Bowman and Jimmie Ward during a recent talk with vice president of football operations and head athletic trainer Jeff Ferguson.
“I haven’t gotten into the specifics on how much, and obviously we’re not going to throw somebody out there and go 100 reps,” Tomsula said of Bowman. “But my understanding right now is yes. He’s moving along great.”
[MAIOCCO: Tomsula: 49ers sticking with 3-4 defense]
Ward finished last season on injured reserve after he had a bent screw replaced in his right foot. Ward underwent surgery a year ago to repair a Jones fracture. Tomsula said Ward’s recovery has been “great.”
