Posted on Sep 13

Raiders' Bowers on game availability: "It's hard to say. We'll see."

Posted Sep 13, 2025

The availability of tight end Brock Bowers for the upcoming game against the Los Angeles Chargers remains uncertain due to a knee injury.

Why it matters: Bowers has emerged as a key offensive weapon for the Raiders, leading all tight ends in receiving yards during his rookie season. His performance could significantly impact the Raiders' ability to execute their game plan effectively against a formidable Chargers defense.

In his first game with starting quarterback Geno Smith, Bowers recorded five receptions for 103 yards, showcasing his potential for big plays.
The Chargers will need to account for Bowers' ability to stretch the field and exploit mismatches, particularly if he is able to play.

What’s new: Bowers practiced on Saturday after being sidelined earlier in the week, but his status remains questionable.

He wore a brace on his left knee during practice, indicating that while he may be improving, the injury continues to be a concern.
"I don't know, it's hard to say," Bowers commented regarding his availability. "I'm just going to keep working out and see how I feel."

Yes, but: The Raiders have depth at tight end, which could mitigate the potential loss of Bowers.

Michael Mayer, the team's second-round pick in 2023, has shown promise, catching four passes for 38 yards last week.
Coach Chip Kelly acknowledged the luxury of having multiple capable tight ends: "To have three tight ends that can play and have proven that they can play in the NFL is a real big deal."

What to watch: Elandon Roberts’ expected return from an elbow injury adds another layer of intrigue for the Raiders’ defensive strategy.

As a starting linebacker, Roberts' presence could bolster the defense against the Chargers' dynamic offense.
However, Jackson Powers-Johnson has been ruled out due to a concussion, which may affect the Raiders' depth on the defensive line.

The bottom line: The outcome of this matchup could hinge on whether Bowers takes the field and how well the Raiders can adapt to his potential absence.

With the Chargers' defensive schemes often designed to limit explosive plays, the Raiders must leverage their tight end depth effectively to create opportunities.
Regardless of Bowers' availability, the focus will be on maximizing the talents of both Mayer and the returning Roberts as the team aims for victory in prime time.

Raiders' Bowers on game availability: "It's hard to say. We'll see."

Alex Parker

Posted Sep 13, 2025

The availability of tight end Brock Bowers for the upcoming game against the Los Angeles Chargers remains uncertain due to a knee injury.

In his first game with starting quarterback Geno Smith, Bowers recorded five receptions for 103 yards, showcasing his potential for big plays.

The Chargers will need to account for Bowers' ability to stretch the field and exploit mismatches, particularly if he is able to play.

What’s new: Bowers practiced on Saturday after being sidelined earlier in the week, but his status remains questionable.

He wore a brace on his left knee during practice, indicating that while he may be improving, the injury continues to be a concern.

"I don't know, it's hard to say," Bowers commented regarding his availability. "I'm just going to keep working out and see how I feel."

Yes, but: The Raiders have depth at tight end, which could mitigate the potential loss of Bowers.

Michael Mayer, the team's second-round pick in 2023, has shown promise, catching four passes for 38 yards last week.

Coach Chip Kelly acknowledged the luxury of having multiple capable tight ends: "To have three tight ends that can play and have proven that they can play in the NFL is a real big deal."

What to watch: Elandon Roberts’ expected return from an elbow injury adds another layer of intrigue for the Raiders’ defensive strategy.

As a starting linebacker, Roberts' presence could bolster the defense against the Chargers' dynamic offense.

However, Jackson Powers-Johnson has been ruled out due to a concussion, which may affect the Raiders' depth on the defensive line.

The bottom line: The outcome of this matchup could hinge on whether Bowers takes the field and how well the Raiders can adapt to his potential absence.

With the Chargers' defensive schemes often designed to limit explosive plays, the Raiders must leverage their tight end depth effectively to create opportunities.

Regardless of Bowers' availability, the focus will be on maximizing the talents of both Mayer and the returning Roberts as the team aims for victory in prime time.