Brock Bowers enters the 2026 NFL season fully recovered from the knee injury that limited him to 12 games and 64 receptions in 2025. The Raiders’ new coaching staff under Klint Kubiak has emphasized schemes to maximize the tight end’s versatility and target share, while the passing game lacks a clear alpha wide receiver. Kirk Cousins opens as the Week 1 starter opposite Fernando Mendoza, potentially stabilizing quarterback play after inconsistent prior seasons. When healthy, Bowers posted 112 receptions as a rookie and commands high usage in the middle of the field, with analysts projecting 80-plus catches if volume and efficiency rebound. His health, scheme fit, and lack of competition position him for elevated reception totals relative to last year.