The Las Vegas Raiders are kicking off their regular season this weekend against the Miami Dolphins, but they’re doing it without one of their absolute best players. Tight end Brock Bowers just had a meniscus trim on Tuesday, putting him out for Week 1 and leaving a huge hole in the offense right as Klint Kubiak starts his head coaching tenure. This is a massive blow, seriously.
The Massive Void Bowers Leaves and Who Steps Up
With Bowers sidelined, it’s Michael Mayer who’s ascending to the TE1 spot. But who fills out the rest of the tight end depth chart? It sounds like Ian Thomas is definitely locking in as the second tight end, and honestly, the guy is more of a blocker. So, if Kubiak wants any kind of passing game juice from his tight ends, he’s probably gotta lean on Connor Heyward. Heyward played both tight end and fullback in college at Michigan State, and he even got used in-line a bunch during his time with the Steelers. They’re talking about him being deployed kinda like Kyle Juszczyk in San Francisco, who spent more time as an in-line tight end than in the backfield last year. Heyward isn’t a 10-time Pro Bowler like Juszczyk, no joke, but the traits are there for a similar role. If they need to go deeper, veteran Chris Myarick, who’s been around for seven years, might get called up from the practice squad.
Michael Mayer’s Big Moment Just Got Even Bigger
Before the Bowers news dropped, Michael Mayer was already on a “make-or-break” season list, which is wild to think about now. But then, Bam! He gets a shocking three-year, $45 million contract extension. Now, with Bowers out, this is the perfect opportunity for Mayer to step up and prove he’s worth every penny of that massive payday. Let’s be real, he’s not expected to do everything Bowers can. Bowers is a unicorn, no doubt, with a unique skill set. Mayer is built differently, taller, thicker, and more physical, while Bowers is lighter, more agile, and has that finesse. But the Raiders need Mayer to produce, especially given that new contract.
This Week 1 matchup against the Dolphins is huge. It’s Kubiak’s first game as head coach, a whole new era for the Raiders, and now Mayer has to prove his worth right out of the gate. All eyes are on him to see if he can deliver on that big contract with Bowers out. Get ready, this is going to be a wild one.
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
Originally reported by Yahoo Sports.
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