The Sports Xchange

San Francisco 49ers linebacker NaVorro Bowman, who missed the 2014 season while recovering from a serious knee injury, is expected to return to the field this month.

New coach Jim Tomsula said Friday that Bowman should be available when the team conducts a pre-draft minicamp later in the month.

“When we can get on the field, Bow is going out on the field,” Tomsula said. “I haven’t gotten into the specifics on how much. Obviously we’re not going to throw somebody out there and go 100 reps. My understanding is, yes, he’s moving great.”

Bowman suffered torn ligaments during the 49ers’ loss to the Seattle Seahawks in the 2013 NFC Championship Game. He started last season on the physically-unable-to-perform list and was placed on injured reserve Dec. 13.

The 49ers are hoping the former All-Pro can return to form, especially with the recent retirements of linebackers Patrick Willis and Chris Borland.

Safety Antoine Bethea said Friday, “Two great players. Chris Borland came on strong for us towards the end of the year, but we’ve got to keep it rolling. I’m pretty sure we’re going to have guys that are going to step in and play some great football for us. Getting NaVorro back this year and, like I said, we’re going to get some guys to come in and step in and make some plays. We’re going to be a family out there and we’re going to do what we need to do.”