The San Francisco 49ers activated linebacker NaVorro Bowman to the 53-man roster from injured reserve on Tuesday and placed tight end Vance McDonald on injured reserve.

Bowman had to be put on the 53-man active roster no later than Tuesday in order to be eligible to play this season.

The two-time Pro Bowler tore the ACL and MCL in his left knee during last season’s NFC Championship game against the Seattle Seahawks. Dr. James Andrews performed the surgery on Feb. 4.

Bowman has not returned to practice with the team, but that might happen this week. He’s not expected to make his season debut Sunday at Seattle.

In four seasons with the 49ers, Bowman has played in all 64 games and started every game the past three years.

Last season before the injury, Bowman had career highs in tackles (192), sacks (5.0), forced fumbles (four) and interceptions (two). He was named to the Pro Bowl in 2012 and 2013 and selected as first-team All-Pro in 2011, 2012 and 2013.

McDonald, picked by the 49ers in the second round of the 2013 NFL Draft, had 10 receptions for 149 yards in 23 games. This year, he has started four games.