With the San Francisco 49ers facing the possibility of playing half the season without star inside linebacker NaVorro Bowman as he recovers from a torn ACL, the team could look for a veteran addition to compete for playing time.

General manager Trent Baalke said last week that the team could bring in competition for Michael Wilhoite and Nick Moody. I don't see the 49ers using a high draft choice on an inside linebacker because Bowman is expected to recover fully. But adding an inexpensive veteran could be an appealing avenue.

I asked ESPN scout Matt Williamson to indentify some inside linebacker who will be affordable free agents who can play in a 3-4 defense.

Williamson identified Akeem Jordan of Kansas City and Dan Connor of the Carolina as solid run stuffers who could compete with Wilhoite and help on special teams. Neither of these players will be priority additions, but they could possibly attract interest as short-term help.