From Newsweek · Jordan Sigler · · 1m 30s
Raiders TE Brock Bowers sidelined, expected back by Week 4
Las Vegas benches its star tight end after a meniscus procedure but avoids injured reserve, signaling a quick return.
In brief
Las Vegas benches its star tight end after a meniscus procedure but avoids injured reserve, signaling a quick return. The Raiders are being cautious with Bowers' knee injury, sitting him out Week 1 but expecting him back within three weeks, prioritizing long-term health over early-season wins. Originally reported by…
Bowers out for Week 1
The Raiders revealed tight end Brock Bowers would miss their season opener against Miami after undergoing a meniscus trim the previous week.
Coach expected him to play
Head coach Klint Kubiak was aware of the procedure but initially believed Bowers would be healthy enough to play against the Dolphins on Sunday.
Typical recovery is four to six weeks
Players who have a meniscus trim typically miss four to six weeks, but the Raiders didn't place Bowers on injured reserve, suggesting a faster timeline.
Could return by Week 4
ESPN's Dan Graziano reports Bowers was healthy enough to play if necessary and believes he'll return by Week 4 against Kansas City, though it could be sooner.
“The team felt he could have played last week if necessary, and it's possible he returns this week.”
Raiders prioritize long-term health
Las Vegas is being cautious with its important offensive weapon, balancing the need to win games in September against keeping Bowers healthy for the season.
Raiders beat Dolphins without him
Las Vegas defeated Miami 27-13 in Week 1, with Kirk Cousins throwing three touchdowns and Michael Mayer emerging as a secondary receiving option.
The takeaway
The Raiders are being cautious with Bowers' knee injury, sitting him out Week 1 but expecting him back within three weeks, prioritizing long-term health over early-season wins.
