The San Francisco 49ers have released NaVorro Bowman.

"Thursday evening, [49ers coach] Kyle [Shanahan] and I met with NaVorro, and from our conversation it became evident that going in different directions was best for both him and our team," 49ers general manager John Lynch said in a statement. "Although NaVorro may be moving on, he will always be looked at as one of the great players to wear the red and gold. We wish him and his family great success."

The 49ers were shopping Bowman in trade talks earlier on Friday.

A knee injury kept Bowman out for the entire 2014 season, and an Achilles injury ended his season in 2016 after just four games.