49ers GM Trent Baalke says NaVorro Bowman ran 4.5 40 in recovery

NaVorro Bowman is arguably the most intimidating inside linebacker in the league when he's healthy.

The 49ers star has been recovering from a gruesome knee injury suffered during last January's NFC Championship Game against the Seattle Seahawks.

Bowman appears to be well on his way back to dominant form and appears to be targeting a return late in the regular season.

"I talked to him the other day in the weight room before I left and he was all excited ‘cause he had gotten to run a full-speed 40 for the first time in a long time and broke the 4.5 range – it was in the 4.5 range,” 49ers general manager Trent Baalke said to Matt Maiocco of CSNBayArea.com.

"So he was all excited. But he’s coming along very well. When he’s set to return remains to be seen. But progressing well, as is Patrick (Willis)."

49ers head coach Jim Harbaugh refused to proved a timetable for Bowman's return. If he's running at full speed in recovery, the 49ers defense could round into top form before the playoffs begin.