<p>Bowers’ absence at tight end compounds the Raiders’ offensive woes when Mayer is also sidelined. As the top two tight ends, their injuries compress the route-tree and block Smith’s easiest outlets.</p>

Bowers inactive vs. Colts with a week-to-week PCL injury and knee bone bruises; has played through pain since Week 1 and posted 225 yards with 0 TD in four games; his rest could help regain form, despite a historically strong college-to-pro start.

Bowers is inactive due to knee rest after a season-long grind, with limited practice fueling the plan to rest and extend his season. His production has declined since a Week 1 breakout, impacting the Raiders' weekly targets and elevating the remaining tight ends for potential utility.

Bowers battles a PCL injury and bone bruise, has been reluctant to rest, and is expected to miss Week 5, marking a rare NFL absence for a rookie who opened with a big game but has declined over the last weeks.

Bowers, Las Vegas Raiders tight end, is questionable with a knee injury described as a PCL issue and bone bruise. Doctors advocate rest, but he’s been reluctant to sit, keeping Week 5 status in flux.