Bowers returns to practice, doubtful vs. Chargers — SkimNews
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- Brock Bowers returned to practice Friday for the first time since his Sept. 8 meniscus trim procedure, wearing a sleeve on his left knee but no brace during the media viewing period.
- Raiders coach Klint Kubiak said the team will decide pregame whether Bowers plays Sunday, but expressed confidence Bowers will be ready for Week 3 against the New Orleans Saints.
- Bowers missed five straight practices and sat out the Week 1 win over the Miami Dolphins after the injury — originally sustained during training camp — was diagnosed last week and surgically addressed by Dr. Daniel Cooper.
- Kubiak said the team will follow its athletic trainers, including wellness coordinator Alex Guerrero, on the decision rather than rushing Bowers back.
- If Bowers can't go, Michael Mayer steps in as the top tight end after catching six passes for 32 yards on seven targets against Miami.
- The situation mirrors last year: ahead of Week 2 vs. the Chargers, Bowers played through a PCL injury and bone bruise in the same left knee, suiting up in a 20-9 home loss to Los Angeles after missing two days of practice.
Why it matters: The Raiders' offense loses a primary red-zone target if Bowers sits again — backup Michael Mayer's modest 32-yard output on seven targets in Week 1 underscores the drop-off. Bowers' track record of playing through left knee damage (he gutted out three games on a PCL injury/bone bruise last season) suggests he may push to suit up, but a meniscus trim is a different medical calculus than simply managing pain.
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