Raiders lose star tight end Brock Bowers to knee surgery ahead of Dolphins clash

Raiders tight end Brock Bowers underwent a meniscus operation this week and is expected to miss several contests, beginning with Sunday’s game against the Miami Dolphins. The injury removes the team’s most dangerous pass-catcher and a key element of head coach Klint Kubiak’s revamped offense, which relied on Bowers’ ability to line up in multiple positions. Bowers missed eight games last season with a similar knee issue and returned limited.

In his absence, Michael Mayer is likely to assume the primary tight-end role, and wide receivers Jack Bech, Jaylen Nailor and Tre Tucker will need to fill the production gap. The Raiders may also shift focus to their ground attack and use multiple-tight-end sets, but no direct substitute matches Bowers’ blend of speed, strength and playmaking. Quarterback Kirk Cousins and the rest of the offense must adapt quickly to compensate for the loss.