Raiders Tight End Brock Bowers Set to Miss Week 1 After Meniscus Surgery

Key points

• Brock Bowers underwent a meniscus trim on Tuesday in Dallas after suffering a knee injury during training camp.
• The injury was not diagnosed until last week, delaying the surgical procedure until the start of the regular season.
• Bowers is expected to miss the Week 1 game against the Miami Dolphins and potentially the Week 2 matchup against the Los Angeles Chargers.
• Backup tight end Michael Mayer is expected to assume the starting role, with wide receivers Jack Bech, Jaylen Nailor, and Tre Tucker filling out the receiving corps.
• The Raiders hope to have running back Ashton Jeanty available for the opener, but his status remains uncertain due to a separate ankle issue.

Background

Bowers, selected 13th overall in the 2024 draft, had a breakout rookie season with 112 catches and 1,194 yards. However, he struggled with knee issues in 2025, missing three games in October and spending the final weeks of the season on injured reserve. Prior to this injury, Bowers was ranked among the top under-25 players in the NFL and was predicted to potentially break the single-season receptions record in 2026.

How outlets are covering it

NBC Sports and NFL.com both confirm the meniscus trim and the 'a game or two' absence timeline, citing NFL Network insider Ian Rapoport and ESPN’s Adam Schefter. Bleacher Report adds that the absence could be longer than expected and highlights the lack of offensive depth beyond Bowers and running back Ashton Jeanty. While NBC Sports notes the Raiders' hope for Jeanty’s availability, Bleacher Report emphasizes the risk if Bowers’ recovery extends beyond the initial estimate.

Why it matters

Bowers is the Raiders' most dynamic offensive weapon, and his absence at the start of the season could significantly impact the team's performance. The Raiders' offense, which relies heavily on Bowers and Jeanty, may struggle to maintain consistency without their top playmaker. Additionally, the injury raises concerns about Bowers' long-term health and his ability to fulfill the high expectations set after his rookie season.

What to watch

The Raiders will face the Miami Dolphins in Week 1, with Michael Mayer expected to start at tight end. Bowers is targeted to return for Week 3 against the New Orleans Saints, assuming his recovery proceeds as planned. The team will also monitor the status of running back Ashton Jeanty, who has been dealing with an ankle injury.