Brock Bowers Injury Update, Timeline to Return to Raiders After Reported Knee Surgery

Las Vegas Raiders tight end Brock Bowers is likely to miss "a game or two" after having a meniscus trim procedure on Tuesday, according to ESPN's Adam Schefter and NFL Network's Ian Rapoport.

Per that report, "Bowers got banged up 'a little in camp' and the injury was diagnosed last week and surgery scheduled."

Knee issues also cost Bowers eight games last season, making Wednesday's news even more of a potential long-term concern. It's also possible that a one- or two-game absence is perhaps somewhat optimistic.

It's a huge loss for a Raiders team that seemed likely to once again be built entirely around Bowers and running back Ashton Jeanty, given the lack of playmakers beyond that pair.

When healthy the 23-year-old Bowers has been fantastic, catching 176 passes for 1,874 yards and 12 touchdowns across 29 career games. He's quickly become one of the most dynamic tight ends in the sport and is a matchup nightmare, though injury concerns are now becoming an unwanted storyline in his burgeoning career.

During his absence, backup tight end Michael Mayer should take on an expanded role, while receivers like Jack Bech, Jaylen Nailor and Tre Tucker will need to step up and provide reliable targets for Kirk Cousins.

But fantasy players, fans and the Raiders alike will be disappointed that Las Vegas' most dynamic offensive weapon is sidelined to start the season, especially if his absence stretches beyond a game or two.