Report: 49ers agreed to trade Bowman to Saints before granting release

The New Orleans Saints reportedly almost got the defensive reinforcement they desperately need.

The San Francisco 49ers agreed to trade linebacker NaVorro Bowman to the Saints for a seventh-round draft pick, but the move was nixed when the linebacker expressed his desire to test free agency, league sources told ESPN's Adam Schefter.

As a reward for Bowman's eight outstanding seasons in San Francisco, the 49ers granted his request.

Bowman and the Oakland Raiders reportedly have strong mutual interest, so it appears the Saints will have to look elsewhere for a boost to their defense.

The team does not plan to also trade veteran running back Carlos Hyde, Schefter reports, citing a team source.