NaVorro Bowman: 5 teams who could sign former 49ers linebacker

3. Oakland Raiders

Oakland is an average team with a few stars hidden in the mix. Their offensive line is pretty good. The team’s offensive skill positions have a ton of talent with guys like Marshawn Lynch, Derek Carr, Amari Cooper, and Michael Crabtree. Their defense has arguably the best defender in the league in Khalil Mack. Karl Joseph has done really well this so far this year.

Still, the Raiders are 2-3 with five of their next six games coming against teams with a .500 record or better. While Derek Carr will be starting against the Chargers, the Raiders have to make a change to win games. Their defense has given up at least 20 points in all but one game this year.

Bowman could turn this team around. Neither of the teams’ starting inside linebackers is contributing in the way the Raiders need to win games. Bowman would be a major upgrade. The defense may not turn into a world-beater, but it could bring the level up enough – especially with Bowman’s leadership skills – to change the course of the Raiders’ season.

Oakland also has to be an attractive destination for Bowman. It’s close to where he’s played his entire career. In addition, they also have an incredible talent in Khalil Mack who Bowman would likely love to work with. The Raiders have their quarterback situation figured out and can devote more draft picks to defense going forward. It is a good situation for the All-Pro.