Brock Bowers, the Raiders’ rookie stud tight end, is not likely to play in Monday night’s showdown with the overwhelming heralded Los Angeles Chargers. Now he’s battling a knee injury that has cast his availability into doubt. Bowers fielded the injury in the second period of last week’s win against the New England Patriots. He took it off for practice for most of the week, but came storming back on Saturday. That has sparked optimism for his readiness for this week’s game.
Bowers wore a knee brace over the sleeve during practice. He was more high functioning than ever the whole hearing. His presence is imperative to the Raiders’ offensive attack. He certainly left an impact in his opening match with first string quarterback Geno Smith, snatching five receptions for 103 backyards.
As for Bowers, Seahawks head coach Pete Carroll talked up his hope of unleashing the talented pass catcher on Sunday.
“He practiced great. He did really well today.” – Pete Carroll
Though Bowers’ health is still an issue, the Raiders like their tight end depth. If he can’t go, the team has Michael Mayer and Ian Thomas to fall back on. Mayer, the team’s second-round pick out of Notre Dame in 2023. Last week, he flashed that upside, hauling in four catches for 38 yards and two touchdowns. Beyond his high-volume receptions, he’s displayed a home-run hitting ability with two of his catches going for more than 30 yards. Significantly, Mayer did sit out seven games last season for personal reasons, adding to the importance of his current performance.
Even former head Chip Kelly had pretty clearly indicated having multiple versatile tight ends on the roster was crucial.
“To have three tight ends that can play and have proven that they can play in the NFL is a real big deal.” – Chip Kelly
Bowers and Mayer give them a strong top, but Ian Thomas provides additional support. The Raiders are blanketed in contingency plans, should things go wrong with Bowers.
He was a full go on Saturday, a solid indicator of his readiness after a whirlwind week with Bowers’ situation unfolding. Additionally, right guard Alex Cappa is slated to return to the starting lineup this week against the Chargers.
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