The Las Vegas Raiders got some unfortunate news on Brock Bowers’ news ahead of their game against the Indianapolis Colts.
Per multiple reports, Bowers’ knee injury has worsened, leading to him not being able to suit up in Week 5. Bowers suffered a knee injury in Week 1, and it has lingered since.
Despite the injury, Bowers has still been able to play in all four games for the Raiders, but his production has dropped significantly in that time. He secured 103 yards in Week 1, but has since not been able to crack 50 yards.
Bowers’ most successful game beyond Week 1 was in Week 4 against the Chicago Bears, where he logged five receptions for 46 yards. Clearly, the knee injury he suffered has hampered his ability to make big plays.
To make matters worse, the Raiders will also be without fellow tight end Michael Mayer due to a concussion. The team has elevated Albert Okwuegbunam for the Colts matchup.
Las Vegas is currently 1-3 on the season, and is falling behind in the AFC West. With three straight losses to the Los Angeles Chargers, Washington Commanders, and Bears, the team is starting to face a reality where they cannot lose too many more games if they want a shot at the playoffs.
Without Bowers, the passing game will definitely take a major hit. Geno Smith has mustered 948 yards thus far, but he has six touchdowns to seven interceptions. His turnover margin is definitely hurting the team.
Running back Ashton Jeanty has emerged as a solid playmaker, having a breakout game of 138 yards on the ground and a touchdown against the Bears, but that has not translated into a win for the Raiders.
Raiders head coach Peter Carroll needs to figure things out for the team before they drop too many more losses. The Colts are also a very tough team, so this will not be an easy game for Las Vegas to win. However, if they can pull off an upset, they will be looking at a 2-3 record with a favorable matchup against the Tennessee Titans in Week 6.
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