As the Las Vegas Raiders prepare for their Week 4 matchup against the Chicago Bears, the tight end position remains a focal point for injury updates. Here’s the latest on the key players affecting both teams.
Brock Bowers: Playing Through Knee Injury
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Brock Bowers, Las Vegas’ star tight end, continues to battle a lingering knee issue. Although he was a full participant in Wednesday’s practice, his effectiveness on the field has diminished since Week 1.
“I don’t know if there’s a percentage you could put on this, but not having a healthy Brock Bowers plays a role in this offense,” Raiders radio voice Jason Horowitz said. “Defenses are playing this team differently when Brock Bowers is not a threat to go for 50 yards, and I think that plays a major factor from Week 1 to now.”
The Raiders’ ground game will need to step up if Bowers cannot regain his full form, with quarterback Geno Smith stressing the importance of controlling the line of scrimmage to open up offensive opportunities.
Michael Mayer: Raiders’ Backup Out
Raiders tight end Michael Mayer will miss his second straight week after sustaining a concussion in last week’s game against Washington. Mayer exited in the first quarter and did not return, confirming concerns about the Raiders’ depth at the position. With Mayer sidelined, more responsibility falls on Brock Bowers to carry the tight end role.
Cole Kmet: Bears TE Impact Dependent on Loveland
Chicago Bears tight end Cole Kmet, who was limited on Wednesday with a groin injury, scored his first touchdown of the season in Week 3 against Dallas. His production could be impacted if rookie Colston Loveland is limited due to injury, as Kmet may see increased targets in Loveland’s absence.
Kmet’s fantasy outlook for Week 4 will depend heavily on Loveland’s availability, especially in a high-stakes matchup against the Raiders’ defense.
Colston Loveland: Rookie Makes Recovery Progress
Rookie tight end Colston Loveland did not practice on Wednesday and left Week 3 early with a hip injury but received a positive update from ESPN’s Adam Schefter:
“Bears TE Colston Loveland’s hip injury is not believed to be serious and he is expected to have a chance to play Sunday at the Raiders.”
The tenth overall pick of the 2025 draft had just started showing promise before leaving the game. His return could stabilize the Bears’ tight end rotation and limit Kmet’s workload.
With Mayer out and Bowers battling injury, the Raiders will lean heavily on their star tight end, while the Bears hope Loveland can return to maintain balance in their offense. The Week 4 showdown may hinge on which team’s tight ends can perform at full strength.