Brock Bowers enters the 2026 regular season as the focal point of the Las Vegas Raiders' passing attack under new head coach Klint Kubiak, whose scheme heavily features tight ends and has produced elevated target shares for primary options in prior stops. The 23-year-old tight end, coming off a 64-reception campaign limited by a prior knee issue in 2025, is expected to command significant volume alongside quarterback options Kirk Cousins and rookie first-overall pick Fernando Mendoza, especially with no established wide receiver threatening his role. However, a recent meniscus procedure has ruled Bowers out for Week 1 against Miami and potentially Week 2, with Michael Mayer stepping in temporarily; his return timeline remains fluid but is projected in the one-to-two-week range. Improved offensive line support and overall scheme changes could support a return to his 2024 rookie pace of 112 receptions if he stays healthy over the full schedule.