Former Packers linebacker Desmond Bishop to sign with 49ers, per report

While the Green Bay Packers continue to look for ways to improve their talent at inside linebacker, one of their former players is set to join a new team. According to a report by the Sacramento Bee's Matt Barrows, Desmond Bishop will sign a one-year deal with the San Francisco 49ers.

Bishop originally joined the Packers as a sixth-round pick out of the University of California in 2007. He steadily moved up the depth chart before replacing an injured Nick Barnett in the base defense in 2010. That year, he helped Green Bay win its first Super Bowl since the mid-nineties. The following offseason, Bishop signed a long-term deal to remain with the team. 2011 proved to be his best season as Bishop totaled 115 tackles, five sacks and two forced fumbles.

However, Bishop's career trajectory changed after a torn hamstring prematurely ended his 2012 campaign. He spent the entire season on injured reserve and was released by the Packers the following offseason over fears of re-injury. He joined the Minnesota Vikings where he played four games before tearing the ACL in his right knee. Bishop resurfaced again in Arizona in 2014 for a two-month stint before receiving his pink slip during the final month of the regular season. He then finished the year with the 49ers as a reserve.

While Bishop struggled with his health over the last few seasons, he offers veteran experience to a team that is suddenly devoid of it. Earlier this offseason, the 49ers lost Patrick Willis and Chris Borland to retirement while defensive lineman Justin Smith appears set to hang up his cleats as well. Bishop, a San Francisco native, will compete with Michael Wilhoite, Nick Moody and rookies yet to be acquired for a spot on the roster.