49ers release linebacker NaVorro Bowman

The 49ers announced Friday that they have released inside linebacker NaVorro Bowman, ending his decorated eight-season tenure in San Francisco. The move comes five days after Bowman said he "didn't like" being replaced for two series by Brock Coyle during an overtime loss to the Colts and suggested he didn't understand head coach Kyle Shanahan's desire to keep him "fresh." "NaVorro gave his heart and soul to this team for the last eight years, and for that we are all extremely grateful," general manager John Lynch said in a statement.