Unfortunate Brock Bowers Development Emerges Before Raiders-Chiefs

Bowers played in the Raiders’ first four games of the season. During that stretch, the star TE was able to register 19 catches for 225 yards. Bowers’ limited production can be attributed to a left knee injury that he sustained in Vegas’ Week 1 win over the New England Patriots. Bowers played through the injury over the next three games.

The Raiders ultimately decided to have Bowers sit out to recover from a PCL issue and a bone bruise on his left knee. He missed Week 5 against the Indianapolis Colts and Week 6 against the Tennessee Titans.

Bowers returned to practice on Friday for the first time since Oct. 1. Despite being a limited participant, this was a positive sign and provided some hope that he would be able to suit up in their rivalry matchup against the Chiefs.

As it turns out, this will not be the case. Adam Schefter of ESPN reported on Saturday night that Bowers will remain sidelined against Kansas City.

“Raiders TE Brock Bowers, listed as doubtful for Sunday’s game due to his knee injury, is not expected to play vs. the Chiefs, per source,” Schefter reported on X. “The Raiders’ bye is next week, and Bowers will have a good chance to return after the bye.”  

The fact that the Raiders do not play next week could be a factor in the team’s decision on Bowers’ status for the Chiefs game. If he does sit out against Kansas City, this would give the Pro Bowler four full weeks of recovery time, giving him a good shot at returning in Week 9 against the Jacksonville Jaguars.

Bowers is coming off a breakout rookie campaign in 2024. In 17 games played for Vegas, the No. 13 overall pick produced 112 receptions for 1,194 yards and five touchdowns.