Published on: Wednesday, January 13, 2010

By Brandy L. Simms

Penn State linebacker and former Suitland High star Navorro Bowman has announced his intentions to forgo his final year of eligibility and enter the NFL Draft.

“My coaches and the Penn State family have helped me become a better player on the field and a better person off the field,” Bowman said in a statement released by the school. “My family and I are very grateful for how I have developed as a player and as a man despite many obstacles. I am very proud that I earned my degree and contributed to successful seasons during my time at Penn State.”

During a three-year stint at Penn State, Bowman was twice named a first team all-conference performer at linebacker.

He’s projected as a top pick in the NFL Draft this spring and becomes the second former county player to declare for the draft this year.

Former Friendly High standout and Florida cornerback Joe Haden has also announced he will forgo his final season of eligibility in favor of the NFL Draft.

During his high school career, Bowman helped guide Suitland to the 4A state championship as a junior in 2004. He was also named the Maryland Defensive Player of the Year that season.

Bowman seeks to become the sixth former Maryland Defensive Player of the Year to earn an NFL paycheck joining a list that includes Tommy Polley (Dunbar), Darnell Dockett (Paint Branch), Derek Wake (DeMatha), Shawne Merriman (Douglass) and Victor Abiamiri (Gilman).

“I will miss my teammates, coaches and our fans,” said Bowman, “but will always be a Penn Stater no matter where I am.”