Photo: Ethan Miller / Getty Images Sport / Getty Images
The Las Vegas Raiders will begin their season without tight end Brock Bowers, who is expected to miss one to two weeks following a meniscus trim surgery performed on Tuesday (September 8) in Dallas. According to reports from ESPN’s Adam Schefter, Bowers sustained the knee injury during training camp, and it was formally diagnosed last week.
Bowers, a first-round pick in the 2024 NFL Draft, quickly became one of the league's top tight ends, earning All-Pro honors as a rookie with 112 receptions for 1,194 yards and five touchdowns. Last season, he played in 12 games, recording 64 receptions for 680 yards and seven touchdowns, despite battling a PCL injury and bone bruise in his left knee.
Fox Sports reports that Bowers is unlikely to play in the season opener against the Miami Dolphins on Sunday (September 13) and may also miss the Week 2 game against the Los Angeles Chargers. The Raiders hope he will return for their Week 3 matchup against the New Orleans Saints.
While Bowers recovers, fourth-year tight end Michael Mayer is expected to take on a more prominent role. Mayer recorded 35 catches for 328 yards and one touchdown in 13 games last season.
The Raiders, led by veteran quarterback Kirk Cousins, will rely on their depth as they navigate the early part of the season without one of their key offensive players.