Miami Dolphins won't have to face Raiders Pro Bowl TE Brock Bowers

The Miami Dolphins are set to take on the Las Vegas Raiders in their season opener, with little concern over injuries plaguing their roster. However, the Raiders' season opener will see a significant absence in the form of Pro Bowl tight end Brock Bowers. Bowers underwent a meniscus trim this week in Dallas, which has put his availability for the game and possibly the following week's match against the Los Angeles Chargers in doubt.

Bowers, who was injured earlier last week, has a history of knee injuries dating back to the previous season. Despite these setbacks, Bowers was rated as the No. 60 player by his peers on the NFL's top 100 players list, underscoring his importance to the Raiders. Dolphins coach Jeff Hafley described Bowers as "an elite tight end," commending his ability to "change games."

Bowers was selected by the Raiders in the first round of the 2024 NFL draft and made a significant impact as a rookie, amassing 112 receptions for 1,194 yards and five touchdowns in his debut season. Injuries limited him to only 12 games during the following year, but he still managed to record 64 catches for 680 yards and seven touchdowns.

Given Bowers' versatility, he can line up either as a tight end or a wide receiver, making it crucial for opposing teams to devise effective game plans. Dolphins coach Jeff Hafley acknowledged Bowers' dual threat, stating that they must have a "good plan" to account for him and make the necessary adjustments. In Bowers' absence, the Raiders will rely on Michael Mayer at tight end, who, last season, caught 35 passes for 328 yards and a touchdown.

However, another key figure in Las Vegas' offense, running back Ashton Jeanty, will be sidelined due to an ankle injury.

The Dolphins' injury report is relatively light, with linebacker Ronnie Harrison Jr. (hamstring) and tight end Will Kacmarek (calf) being limited during practice, although Kacmarek expects to play. Tight end Seydou Traore (thumb, Achilles) was also in full practice mode. Hal Habib covers the Miami Dolphins for The Palm Beach Post.