The Las Vegas Raiders received much-needed good news on Monday following a humiliating 31-0 loss to the Kansas City Chiefs. Head coach Pete Carroll confirmed that tight end Brock Bowers and wide receiver Jakobi Meyers are expected to return in Week 9 against the Jacksonville Jaguars after the team’s bye week. The extra time off should allow both players to recover fully and rejoin the offense at full strength.
Support Local and Independent Sports Writing – Subscribe To the LAFB Network Today!
Brock Bowers’ Road to Recovery
Support Our Fight To End Fall Weddings
Bowers has missed the last three games with a lingering PCL injury in his knee. Despite trying to play through setbacks earlier in the season, the Raiders ultimately prioritized his long-term health, opting to sit him until fully healthy. In four games this season, Bowers has 19 receptions for 225 yards on 27 targets, averaging 11.8 yards per catch. “We’re looking after him. There’s a big bye coming up… It might be best to just guarantee that he’s full speed and back,” Carroll said regarding his star tight end.
The 2024 NFL rookie record-holder for receptions in a season made an immediate impact as a rookie with 112 catches but has struggled to reach that level this year due to injury. In his absence, second-year tight end Michael Mayer has stepped up, playing a significant role in the offense and providing a reliable safety valve for quarterback Geno Smith.
Jakobi Meyers and Offensive Boost
Meyers missed Week 7 while dealing with knee and toe injuries. Through six games, he has recorded 29 catches on 43 targets for 329 yards. His return alongside Bowers will provide Geno Smith with two of his top receiving weapons and much-needed stability in a passing game that ranks near the bottom of the NFL in total passing yards (1,425), passing touchdowns (7), and passing yards per attempt (7.0).
Looking Ahead
Maxx Crosby, who left Sunday’s blowout with a knee concern, is also expected to be back in the starting lineup for Week 9. With a Week 8 bye on the horizon, the Raiders have an opportunity to regroup and integrate their key players before facing the Jaguars. After a tough start to the 2025 season, getting Bowers, Meyers, and Crosby back could be pivotal in salvaging the year and stabilizing an offense that has struggled mightily without its top talent.