The Los Angeles Chargers new head coach Jim Harbaugh is fresh off an undefeated season with the Michigan Wolverines. His tenure with the program ended with a national championship. The Chargers are now defending against Harbaugh after firing Brandon Staley, and the former Michigan HC is also determined to find similar success with his new squad.
Following Jim Harbaugh’s appointment, a trend of his former San Francisco 49ers players joining his coaching staff continues. Latest reports suggest linebacker NaVorro Bowman is next in line for a reunion, potentially joining the coaching ranks.
Chargers reportedly want to sign NaVorro Bowman
The Chargers are reportedly in talks with NaVorro Bowman to fill the role of linebackers coach, according to a report from NFL Network. If the deal materializes, he will be working under the guidance of new defensive coordinator Jesse Minter on the Chargers team, via Bleacher Report. Minter previously served alongside Jim Harbaugh at Michigan from 2022–2023.
The potential pairing of Harbaugh and Bowman brings a wave of nostalgia due to their relationship with the 49ers squad. The duo led the 49ers to three consecutive NFC Championship appearances and a memorable Super Bowl berth in 2012. However, they ultimately fell short against John Harbaugh’s Baltimore Ravens.
While NaVorro Bowman lacks formal coaching experience, his recent role as a defensive analyst for Maryland football has provided him with valuable experience and insights. His three seasons analyzing the game, combined with his own past success as a linebacker, give him a unique understanding of the defensive side of the field, especially at the professional level. This background could prove crucial as he embarks on his coaching career.
Bowman’s potential addition wouldn’t be the only reunion on the Chargers’ sidelines. Harbaugh has already brought familiar faces to Los Angeles. He tapped Jesse Minter and Greg Roman, his former offensive coordinator for the 49ers.
NaVorro Bowman’s NFL career recap
NaVorro Bowman started his NFL career after getting selected in the third round of the 2010 NFL Draft and initially played a supporting role. Nonetheless, his rise to fame happened at the same time as Jim Harbaugh’s appointment as the 49ers head coach in 2011. Bowman thrived under his guidance, earning first-team All-Pro recognition for three consecutive seasons.
The ex-NFL star suffered a setback in the form of a devastating knee injury during the 2013 NFC Championship Game. However, his determination saw him return stronger in 2015. His remarkable consistency was highlighted by recording 120+ combined tackles in five seasons, including a league-leading 154 in 2015.
The 49ers’ decision to let go of the footballer in 2017 marked the conclusion of a significant period, yet it did not indicate the conclusion of his career. He embarked on a fresh journey with the Oakland Raiders and continued to showcase his skills before ultimately retiring prior to the 2019 season.
The LB amassed 798 tackles, 14 sacks, and five interceptions over his illustrious career. His accolades include four first-team All-Pro selections and three Pro Bowl appearances, along with other awards such as the Butkus Award in 2013.
