49ers’ Bowman, finally back after knee injury, a louder presence
Nearly 20 months later, finally, he played in a meaningful game again — and he anchored a strong defensive effort as the 49ers opened their season with a 20-3 victory over the Vikings.
Bowman absolutely was a dynamic player before he tore his ACL and MCL, a gruesome and devastating injury.
Much had changed since his last time on the field 20 months earlier, including the retirements of Willis (his fellow All-Pro linebacker) and Justin Smith and the departure of Aldon Smith.
Was Bowman trying to take a more forceful leadership role on the 49ers’ young, reshaped defense?
“The way I look at it, the identity and level of play we had when all those guys were here — that was a great way of playing football, and it was well-known throughout the league,” he said.
The next step involves confronting a tough, savvy Steelers team on its home turf.
Defensive coordinator Eric Mangini likened Bowman to a “quiet storm,” not saying much in meetings during the week but slowly building toward game day.
Jarryd Hayne might resume returning punts Sunday against the Steelers, given the injuries to Reggie Bush and Bruce Ellington.
Bush (strained calf) did not travel with the team to Pittsburgh, and the 49ers listed Ellington as questionable because of an ankle injury.
Hayne muffed his first attempted punt return, leading to a turnover.