Bowers Out: Raiders Tight End Misses Second Game with Knee Injury

Brock Bowers Misses Another Game with Knee Injury

Raiders tight end Brock Bowers will miss his second straight game due to a knee injury, as confirmed for Sunday’s matchup against the Tennessee Titans. Bowers did not participate in practice this week, and coach Pete Carroll stated that the All-Pro receiver “is not ready yet.”

We are trying to make sure that, once he returns, he stays and there are no setbacks.

Pete Carroll

Sources indicate that Bowers played despite a posterior cruciate ligament (PCL) injury and a bone bruise in his left knee, suffered in the Raiders’ season-opening victory against the New England Patriots. Doctors have indicated that the only way to recover from these injuries is through rest, something that Bowers has avoided. During games, Bowers admitted that he couldn’t play at his top speed or generate the desired separation. In weeks 2 to 4, he accumulated 14 receptions for 122 yards, averaging 8.7 yards per reception. He tried to play last week against the Colts, but Carroll reported that the player didn’t feel well during the rehearsals and was ruled out. Raiders offensive coordinator Chip Kelly stated that Bowers’ absence “changes everyone’s job.”

You lose the best tight end in the NFL, and the play selection is different. You have to be able to make adjustments when you lose players like that, and you have to move on, because nobody is going to feel sorry for you when a player is out.

Chip Kelly

Despite Bowers’ absence, tight end Michael Mayer is expected to be available. Mayer cleared concussion protocol and fully participated in practice this week, after missing the last two games. Mayer suffered a concussion in the Week 3 loss against the Washington Commanders. He was in a fencing position after taking a hit to the head while tackling wide receiver Jaylin Lane on a 25-yard punt return. Mayer stated that he is “euphoric” to return to the field and has been training as if he were the team’s starting tight end. Mayer, a second-round selection in 2023, has accumulated six receptions for 47 yards this season.

We’ve always considered Mike a starting tight end in this league. We’re excited to have him back, and we’ll need him against Tennessee.

Chip Kelly