Raiders Expect Tight End Brock Bowers to Play Against Chargers Despite Knee Injury

Raiders TE Brock Bowers' Status Uncertain for Monday Night Game Against Chargers

Las Vegas Raiders tight end Brock Bowers is listed as questionable for the Week 2 Monday night matchup against the Los Angeles Chargers due to a knee injury. Despite missing practices, coach Pete Carroll anticipates Bowers being available for the crucial AFC West game.

Bowers' Injury and Practice Status

Bowers injured his knee during the second half of last week's victory over the New England Patriots. He sat out Thursday and Friday practices but returned on Saturday, wearing a brace on his left knee. While he expressed cautious optimism, he acknowledged that his availability remains uncertain. "I don't know, it's hard to say. 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," Bowers stated.

Offensive Impact and Tight End Depth

Bowers' presence is crucial for the Raiders' offense. As a rookie, he led all tight ends in receiving yards (1,194). In Week 1, playing alongside starting quarterback Geno Smith, he had five receptions for 103 yards. If Bowers is unable to play, Michael Mayer, a second-round pick in 2023, is expected to step up. Mayer had four catches for 38 yards in Week 1 and had a strong training camp.

"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," Chip 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."

Other Raiders Injury Updates

Starting linebacker Elandon Roberts (elbow) is expected to play after participating fully in Saturday's practice. However, Jackson Powers-Johnson has been ruled out due to a concussion sustained in Thursday's practice. Alex Cappa is projected to start at right guard for the Raiders.

NFL Injury Report Overview

Besides Bowers' questionable status, several other notable players across the NFL are dealing with injuries. Xavier Worthy of the Kansas City Chiefs is ruled out with a shoulder injury, and Brock Purdy of the San Francisco 49ers is also out with a toe injury. Green Bay Packers' wide receiver Jayden Reed suffered a broken collarbone, while Washington Commanders' running back Austin Ekeler is out for the season with a torn Achilles. Many other teams have players listed as out or questionable.