TE Bowers returns to practice but unlikely to play vs. Chargers

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  Ryan McFaddenSep 18, 2026, 04:10 PM ET

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  Ryan McFadden covers the Las Vegas Raiders for ESPN's NFL Nation. Prior to ESPN, McFadden was a Denver Broncos beat reporter for the Denver Post. McFadden also wrote about the Baltimore Ravens and University of Maryland athletics for The Baltimore Sun.

HENDERSON, Nev. -- Las Vegas Raiders tight end Brock Bowers returned to practice on Friday but is doubtful to play in Sunday's divisional matchup against the Los Angeles Chargers.

Raiders coach Klint Kubiak said the team will see how Bowers feels pregame to determine whether he plays. Either way, Kubiak is optimistic that Bowers will play in Week 3 against the New Orleans Saints.

Bowers practiced Friday for the first time since he underwent a meniscus trim procedure Sept. 8. He had missed five straight practices and Week 1's win over the Miami Dolphins. During the media viewing period of practice, Bowers wore a sleeve on his left knee but no brace.

Earlier this week, Kubiak said the team would be smart with Bowers and listen to the athletic trainers, including wellness coordinator Alex Guerrero. If Bowers is ready to play, he will, said Kubiak.

Bowers got banged up during training camp, but the injury was diagnosed last week, prompting him to have surgery by Dr. Daniel Cooper. Kubiak said he doesn't recall the exact day the injury occurred.

If Bowers is sidelined on Sunday, Michael Mayer will continue to be the team's top tight end. Mayer caught six passes for 32 yards on seven targets against the Dolphins.

Bowers faced a similar situation ahead of last year's Week 2 contest against the Chargers. He suffered a posterior cruciate ligament injury and a bone bruise in his left knee in the season opener against the New England Patriots then missed two days of practice before participating on the final day and playing in the 20-9 home loss.

He played three games with the injury and had to sit out for three games to return to full strength.