NaVorro Bowman might not be straying far in his first foray as a free agent.
Bowman, granted his release Friday by the 49ers, will visit the Raiders "in the coming days," NFL Network's Ian Rapoport reported Sunday morning.
The 49ers released Bowman only after he vetoed a trade, and that potential partner was identified Sunday as the New Orleans Saints, who would have sent the 49ers a seventh-round draft pick in return, ESPN's Adam Schefter reported Sunday.
The Carolina Panthers and Cleveland Browns also are interested in Bowman, and the Baltimore Ravens were in serious trade talks along with the Saints, Fox Sports' Jay Glazer reported.
The Saints have only $2.5 million in salary cap space, so Bowman likely would have had to take a pay cut. The Raiders have $9.8 million in room.
As an eighth-year veteran, Bowman's minimum salary would be $900,000.
Bowman, 29, requested his release after 49ers coach Kyle Shanahan and general manager John Lynch refused to budge on their strategy of resting him a couple series each game. Bowman said he "didn't like" coming out two series last Sunday as the winless 49ers lost at Indianapolis 26-23 in overtime.
Leg injuries kept Bowman out 28 of the past 52 games, a result of his January 2014 knee injury and last October's Achilles tear.
"Wherever he goes, he's going to do great," Reuben Foster, Bowman's heir apparent, said Friday. "His career is not over with yet. Trust me."
Added defensive end Tank Carradine: "He set a good example for the younger guys and I picked up a lot of good habits. I know wherever he goes, they're getting a great player. I'm happy for him and wish him the best of luck."
The 49ers haven't announced who will start Sunday in his place at Washington. Foster is coming off an ankle sprain and may not be full-go against Washington in his first action since the season opener. Brock Coyle is an option to start at middle linebacker next to Ray-Ray Armstrong.
