The Las Vegas Raiders signed QB Geno Smith in hopes of a turnaround. They thought that head coach Pete Carroll‘s old camaraderie with the signal caller, combined with their explosive tight end Brock Bowers, would work wonders. Alas, their dreams crashed even before the season got halfway.

After 8 weeks, the Raiders sit at a 2-5 record, 4th in the AFC West. One of the reasons for the collapse? Bowers battled through a PCL injury and a bone bruise since the season-opener. “Brock is a big part of our offense, and we missed him out there for sure. He looked fine to me. So, really happy to have him back,” Smith said.

Anyway, now the team is happy that its top TE is back from the knee injury. He is at full health and will play on Sunday against the Jacksonville Jaguars. But will that resolve every offensive issue?

The Raiders have struggled to find consistent success on offense during the 2025 season. In seven games, they recorded a total of 1,935 yards, last among the 32 NFL teams. Out of this, 1,279 yards came through the air (30th) and 656 on the ground (31st). Geno Smith led the passing game and played all seven games. He completed 133 of 202 passes (65.8% completion rate) for 1,417 yards. He threw seven touchdown passes but also ten interceptions. Smith was sacked 19 times for a total loss of 146 yards and finished with a 77.1 passer rating. While his accuracy was good, his turnovers and pressure in the pocket often stalled drives.

In the rushing game, rookie running back Ashton Jeanty carried the main load. He ran 111 times for 445 yards, scored three touchdowns, and lost one fumble. Other running backs, including Raheem Mostert and Zamir White, added limited production, combining for 105 yards.

Among receivers, WR Tre Tucker emerged as the team’s top target with 29 receptions for 389 yards and four touchdowns. WR Jakobi Meyers followed with 329 yards on 29 catches but did not score.

Overall, the Raiders’ offense has been inconsistent and inefficient. However, Brock Bowers’ return gives the team hope for the future.

Brock Bowers is ready for a solid comeback

After practice on Wednesday, October 29, Brock Bowers focused on resetting physically and mentally. Bowers said he stayed around the facility for a few days, practiced twice, and then took a short two-day trip to the beach to relax and clear his mind. But the Raiders’ TE admitted the time off wasn’t easy for him.

The tight end said it was “brutal” to be told by the coaching staff that he needed to sit out and rest. “It s—-d, to be honest,” he said. “But it’s in the past. I’m excited to get back out there.” His competitive nature has shown all season, as he continues to be one of the most reliable young players on the Raiders’ offense. In just 4 games, Bowers has caught 19 passes for 225 yards. Even without a touchdown so far, he has provided a steady target for quarterback Geno Smith.

In the meantime, Bowers has built a strong friendship with TE Michael Mayer. They often play golf together, share team dinners, and hang out with the rest of the tight end group. Mayer joked that he’s “definitely the best golfer in the tight end room,” while Bowers quickly disagreed, shaking his head and laughing, “No shot.” The TE was also busy with Derek Jeter‘s athleisure brand Greatness Wins.

Bowers is ready to return for the Week 9 game against the Jacksonville Jaguars. They mentioned that the Raiders expect a tough matchup against Jacksonville’s strong defensive front and secondary. Geno Smith’s top TE has never played on a Thursday night before, said he’s looking forward to the quick turnaround and trusts the staff’s preparation.

Overall, it’s an exciting week for the Raiders.