The Las Vegas Raiders received a boost ahead of their Monday night home opener against the Los Angeles Chargers, though questions remain about the availability of star tight end Brock Bowers.
Bowers, who left last week’s win over the New England Patriots with a knee injury, returned to practice Saturday after sitting out Thursday and Friday. The rookie sensation wore a brace over a sleeve on his left knee but was active in drills and moving well.
“He practiced great,” head coach Pete Carroll said after Saturday’s session. “He did really well today.”
Bowers, however, was less definitive when asked if he expects to play under the primetime lights.
“I don’t know, it’s hard to say,” Bowers said, via ESPN’s Ryan McFadden. “I’m just going to keep working out and see how I feel the rest of the day, tomorrow and the next day. So, we’ll see.”
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The injury came during the second half against New England, when Bowers had already established himself as the Raiders’ most dangerous weapon. He hauled in five catches for 103 yards, including two receptions of more than 30 yards, before being sidelined. Carroll later noted that Bowers wanted to return, but team trainers held him out.
Las Vegas listed Bowers as questionable for Monday night, though Carroll expressed confidence that his top pass catcher will be available.
Depth Behind Brock Bowers
Should Bowers be limited or unable to go, the Raiders remain confident in their tight end depth. Michael Mayer, a 2023 second-round pick, caught four passes for 38 yards in Week 1 and has drawn praise from offensive coordinator Chip Kelly.
“I think [there aren’t] many people [who] have that luxury to have two talented players like that. And I’ll throw Ian [Thomas] in there, too,” Kelly said. “To have three tight ends that can play and have proven that they can play in the NFL is a real big deal.”
Mayer, who missed time last season for personal reasons, has said this is the best he’s felt both mentally and emotionally since entering the league.
Other Injury Notes
The Raiders will be without offensive lineman Jackson Powers-Johnson, who suffered a concussion in Thursday’s practice. Veteran guard Alex Cappa is expected to start in his place.
On defense, starting linebacker Elandon Roberts (elbow) is set to play after progressing from a limited role earlier in the week to a full participant on Saturday.
A Critical Piece for the Raiders’ Offense
Bowers’ presence could prove decisive against a Chargers defense that struggled in pass coverage in Week 1. As a rookie last season, he led all NFL tight ends with 1,194 receiving yards, quickly establishing himself as one of the league’s premier playmakers.
For Carroll, who turns 74 this weekend, having Bowers on the field against a divisional rival would be a welcome gift. “Yeah,” Carroll said with a smile. “He looked terrific today.”
Whether Bowers is at full strength or not, all eyes will be on the Raiders’ top target as they look to start 2-0 under the primetime spotlight.