The Las Vegas Raiders kicked off their 2026 NFL season in Week 1 against the Miami Dolphins at Allegiant Stadium, but Brock Bowers’ injury absence was one of the biggest storylines surrounding the opener.
Bowers recently underwent knee surgery to repair his meniscus, according to a Wednesday report from the Associated Press. A person familiar with the situation, speaking anonymously because the injury had not been publicly announced at the time, said the tight end was expected to return within one or two weeks.
However, a recent report from ESPN’s Adam Schefter has raised the possibility that Bowers could be back on the field as soon as Week 2.
“After undergoing a meniscus trim Tuesday, the Raiders believe there’s a realistic chance Brock Bowers will miss only one game and return for Week 2 at the Los Angeles Chargers, per sources,” Schefter tweeted on X. “Team will see how he’s feeling this week, but a potential return next week is within the realm of possibility,” the NFL insider added.
The knee issue comes after an injury suffered during last season’s opener against New England significantly affected Bowers’ production. He finished the year with 64 receptions for 680 yards and seven touchdowns while dealing with the injury.
