Raiders List Bowers Questionable for Saints After Planned Practice Absence

Key points

• Brock Bowers is listed as questionable for Week 3 against the Saints.
• Kubiak stated Bowers' absence from Friday's practice was intentional to manage his knee injury.
• Bowers missed the first two weeks of the season following a meniscus trim.
• The Raiders are 2-0 without Bowers, averaging 26.5 points per game.
• Kubiak confirmed no pre-game workout will be conducted for Bowers this week.

Background

Bowers underwent a meniscus trim in early September, initially expected to miss one to two weeks. He missed Week 1 against the Dolphins and Week 2 against the Chargers, where he participated in pre-game warmups but did not play. Michael Mayer started in his absence, recording nine receptions for 55 yards through two games. The Raiders' offense has adapted, utilizing running back Ashton Jeanty and wide receiver Tre Tucker to maintain a 2-0 record.

How outlets are covering it

NBC Sports and CBS Sports emphasize the uncertainty surrounding Bowers' status, noting that his absence from Friday's practice, while described as planned by Kubiak, may signal a cautious approach. The Athletic highlights the Raiders' successful adaptation without Bowers, noting their 18th-ranked offensive EPA per play but 10th-ranked scoring average. Bleacher Report focuses on the broader impact of Bowers' potential return, noting his previous production and the team's surprising start. All sources agree that Kubiak's decision to skip a pre-game workout is a significant departure from previous weeks, suggesting a more definitive status update may be delayed until game day.

Why it matters

Bowers is the Raiders' primary pass-catcher and a key component of their offensive scheme. His return would significantly impact their offensive flexibility and fantasy value. Conversely, his absence forces continued reliance on Michael Mayer and other skill players, testing the depth of the Raiders' roster. The outcome of this game will also provide insight into the Raiders' ability to sustain success without their star tight end, influencing future roster decisions and playoff prospects.

What to watch

The Raiders will likely announce Bowers' final status closer to kickoff, as Kubiak indicated no pre-game workout will be used. Fantasy managers should monitor official team announcements before Sunday's 4:25 p.m. ET kickoff. If Bowers is inactive, Michael Mayer will continue as the starting tight end, with Tre Tucker and Ashton Jeanty expected to maintain their roles in the offense.