For the first time this season, Brock Bowers is active on game day. The Raiders’ tight end will play against the Saints in Week 3.
Bowers missed the first two games of the season after undergoing knee surgery. His procedure occurred on Sept. 8, just before the start of the season.
Bowers didn’t practice on Friday. However, head coach Klint Kubiak said that was part of the plan and that he was optimistic about Bowers playing against the Saints.
The Raiders didn’t need Bowers to jump out to a 2-0 start, as Las Vegas knocked off the Dolphins and Chargers to start the season.
Without Bowers, Kirk Cousins relied on the trio of Tre Tucker, Ashton Jeanty and Michael Mayer. Tucker lit up the Chargers with five catches for 119 yards in Week 2. Jeanty hauled in two touchdowns in Week 1, but also dropped three passes against the Chargers.
With a chance to be the top tight end, Michael Mayer didn’t impress. He was targeted 11 times in two games, but only produced 55 yards on nine catches.
Load Management
Although Bowers is back, his role for Week 3 is yet to be determined. The Raiders are currently limiting Maxx Crosby’s snaps after he had offseason surgery. A similar option could be in play for Bowers.
Kubiak has not given any indication as to what Bowers’ role will be. But if the Raiders want to be cautious with their best offensive player coming off knee surgery, Bowers could be on the sideline more than usual.
Last season Bowers dealt with injuries as well. He suffered a PCL injury and bone bruise in Week 1, but played through the injury for the next three games. Bowers ended up missing five games last season due to his knee injuries.
The Raiders are hoping this recovery will be smoother for Bowers.
