The Las Vegas Raiders will begin their season without Brock Bowers, who is expected to miss one to two games after undergoing a meniscus trim in Dallas on Tuesday, as reported by ESPN. The injury, which reportedly occurred during training camp, led to the surgery being scheduled shortly thereafter.

Bowers will miss the season opener against the Miami Dolphins and may also be sidelined for the Raiders' Week 2 clash against the Los Angeles Chargers on "Sunday Night Football." His potential return could coincide with the Raiders' Week 3 matchup against the New Orleans Saints.

The absence of Bowers is a significant blow to the Raiders' offense. The Pro Bowler has made a mark in his first two NFL seasons, earning All-Pro honors as a rookie after catching 112 passes for 1,194 yards and five touchdowns. Notably, he broke the longstanding record for receiving yards by a rookie tight end, previously held by Hall of Famer Mike Ditka since 1961. Additionally, he surpassed Puka Nacua's record for most receptions in a season by a rookie.

Despite missing five games last season due to injury, Bowers still managed to catch seven touchdown passes and was selected to his second Pro Bowl.

In his absence, Michael Mayer is set to step in as the starting tight end. A second-round pick in 2023, Mayer has significant NFL experience, having made 32 starts with the Raiders, including 12 in 2025. Over 38 NFL games, he has recorded 83 receptions for 788 yards and three touchdowns.