Brock Bowers: Out for the Season | ESPN | Injury Status & What It Means for the Raiders

The Las Vegas Raiders announced that star tight end Brock Bowers will miss the remainder of the 2025 NFL season, after being placed on season-ending injured reserve (IR), according to ESPN and multiple NFL sources. 

This is a major development for the Raiders franchise, as Bowers has remained one of the few bright spots in an otherwise difficult season. In this detailed article, we break down what happened, Bowers’ injury timeline, his performance this year, the impact on the Raiders, and what fans and analysts should expect going forward.

Who Is Brock Bowers?

Brock Bowers is a tight end for the Las Vegas Raiders, drafted 13th overall in the 2024 NFL Draft. A former Georgia standout, Bowers transitioned instantly to NFL stardom, breaking records for tight ends in his rookie season and earning First-Team All-Pro honors along with a Pro Bowl selection. 

He has continued that excellence in 2025, earning a second consecutive Pro Bowl nod despite battling injuries through much of the year. 

What Happened? Details on Bowers’ Injury

Knee Injury Timeline

Bowers suffered a knee injury (posterior cruciate ligament and bone bruise) in Week 1 of the 2025 season against the New England Patriots. 

Throughout the season:

• He played through the injury in early games, missing some time for rest and recovery. 

• He sat out multiple games to allow the knee to heal.

• Despite returning to action and playing well, the Raiders ultimately decided to place him on injured reserve, officially ending his 2025 campaign. 

Official Status: Season-Ending Injured Reserve

On December 24, 2025, the Las Vegas Raiders placed Brock Bowers on injured reserve, effectively ending his season with two regular-season games left. 

This move follows ongoing concerns over the knee injury and reflects a strategy to preserve Bowers’ long-term health, especially with the Raiders out of contention and focusing on 2026.

Bowers’ 2025 Performance Recap

Despite the injury struggles, Bowers had a productive and impactful season:

• 64 receptions

• 680 receiving yards

• 7 receiving touchdowns

These numbers came in 12 games, and he was still leading the Raiders in all major receiving categories at the time he was shut down. 

Even with the injury, Bowers’ 2025 production was strong enough to earn a Pro Bowl selection for the second straight year. 

Impact on the Raiders Offense

Immediate Effects

With Bowers sidelined for the rest of the season:

• The Raiders lose their top pass-catcher, a major offensive weapon.

• Backup tight ends such as Michael Mayer and others are expected to see increased roles in the passing game. 

The Raiders (2-13) have struggled overall in 2025, and losing Bowers further weakens an already inconsistent offense.

Draft Implications

The Raiders are currently tied with the New York Giants for the worst record in the league. How they perform in the final two games will affect their position in the 2026 NFL Draft, particularly if they aim to secure the No. 1 overall pick.

Bowers’ Career in Context

Bowers’ early career has already been remarkable:

• NFL receptions record for a rookie tight end

• Second consecutive Pro Bowl

• All-Pro honors during his rookie year

He remains one of the most promising young offensive talents in the league, even though 2025 will end early due to injury. 

What’s Next? Recovery & 2026 Outlook

While the official diagnosis centers on Bowers’ knee, the team’s placement of him on IR suggests a strategy focused on full recovery before training camp 2026. This could help preserve his career longevity and maximize his impact when healthy.

Early reports indicate the decision was made to address the knee now so he can be 100% for the next season. 

FAQs: Brock Bowers Injury & Status

Is Brock Bowers out for the entire 2025 season?

Yes. Bowers has been placed on injured reserve, which means his 2025 season is officially over. 

What injury did he suffer?

Bowers has been battling a knee injury since Week 1, including a posterior cruciate ligament injury and bone bruise. 

Will this affect his 2026 season?

The Raiders have prioritized his long-term health, with the placement on IR intended to allow full recovery. He’s expected to be a part of the Raiders’ future plans once healthy.

Who replaces Bowers in the Raiders’ lineup?

Backup tight end Michael Mayer and other offensive weapons will step into a larger role for the remainder of the season. 

How has Bowers performed this season before the injury?

Bowers finished with 64 receptions, 680 yards, and 7 touchdowns — leading the team in all receiving categories. 

Conclusion

The news of Brock Bowers being placed on injured reserve and ending his 2025 season is a disappointment for both Raiders fans and NFL followers. Despite battling injury, Bowers managed to put up impressive numbers and earn Pro Bowl recognition — further cementing his status as one of the premier young pass catchers in the league.

With his focus now shifting to recovery and preparation for 2026, the Raiders will look to rebuild around their star tight end and navigate the rest of the season with updated offensive plans and emerging contributors.