Bowers Could Play vs Chargers: Good News for Raiders, Slight Concern

HENDERSON, Nev. – Las Vegas Raiders tight end Brock Bowers is questionable for Monday night’s game against the Los Angeles Chargers due to a knee injury. However, the Raiders’ coach expects the team’s star receiver to be available. Bowers practiced on Saturday after being absent on Thursday and Friday. He has worn a knee brace over a sleeve on his left knee for the last two days. Practiced great. He did very well today. Bowers commented that he felt good during practice. When asked if he felt more optimistic about his availability, Bowers replied: “I don’t know, it’s hard to say. I’m just going to keep training and see how I feel the rest of the day, tomorrow, and the day after tomorrow. So, we’ll see.” Bowers injured his knee during the second half of last week’s victory over the New England Patriots. The coach said Bowers wanted to return to the game, but the training staff held him back. Bowers’ availability is significant for the Raiders’ offense. As a rookie, he led all tight ends in receiving yards (1,194). In his first game playing alongside starting quarterback Geno Smith, Bowers totaled five receptions for 103 yards. He had two receptions of at least 30 yards. If Bowers can’t play, the Raiders are satisfied with their depth at the tight end position. Michael Mayer, a second-round pick from Notre Dame in 2023, had four receptions for 38 yards last week. He had a strong training camp and said this is the best he’s felt mentally and emotionally. Mayer missed seven games last year for personal reasons. The Raiders’ offensive coordinator, Chip Kelly, was impressed with Mayer’s performance in Week 1. He said Mayer did a good job catching the ball underneath, running after the reception, and blocking at the point of attack.

I don’t think there are many people who have the luxury of having two talented players like that. And I’ll also include Ian Thomas.

Chip Kelly, Raiders offensive coordinator

In other injury news, starting linebacker Elandon Roberts (elbow) will play after participating fully on Saturday. Jackson Powers-Johnson was ruled out after suffering a concussion in Thursday’s practice. Alex Cappa is expected to start at right guard.