San Francisco 49ers linebacker NaVorro Bowman is close to full fitness, according to general manager Trent Baalke.

Bowman missed the entire 2014 season with a serious knee injury, but hopes to be fully fit by the time the 2015 season starts in September.

Baalke told CSN: "We're very confident in where he's at with his recovery. He's really starting to feel like it's coming back to where he wants it. And that's always the most important thing. I think he's at a real good place right now."

Bowman was named as the Defensive Player of the Year in 2013.