The Las Vegas Raiders opened Week 1 with a win over the New England Patriots. However, Brock Bowers suffered a knee injury after a strong performance. As a result, his Week 2 status is uncertain.

Las Vegas are eager to have Bowers available for their home opener, but they won’t take chances if he isn’t fully recovered.

If Bowers is sidelined, that could allow Michael Mayer to step in and make his mark as he impressed in Week 1 despite limited touches.

Moreover, the Raiders’ offensive coordinator, Chip Kelly, offered significant praise while speaking to the media on September 12.

As a result, if there’s no Bowers for the Silver and Black, Kelly is ready to count on Mayer.

“I’ve been a huge Mike fan since I got here, and Pete [Carroll is] right,” Kelly said. “Not many people have the luxury of two talented players like that.

“I’ll throw Ian in there too—he played 20 snaps himself. Having three tight ends who can play and have proven themselves in the NFL is a big deal.

“That depth gets tested. We lost Brock for a bit at the end of the third and into the fourth, and I thought Mike did an outstanding job—catching the ball underneath, gaining yards after the catch, and blocking at the point of attack really well.”

While Mayer’s role was enough against the Patriots, Kelly and the rest of the offense might need more from the 24-year-old against the Los Angeles Chargers.

What’s the latest on the Raiders’ Brock Bowers

The Raiders benefit from an extra day of preparation, which could give Bowers the time he needs to recover.

His status is worth monitoring closely, as losing their top offensive weapon would be a significant blow.

Las Vegas have an extra day to get ready, which could be just what Bowers needs to recover.

This is definitely a situation to keep an eye on. As the team’s top offensive player, his absence would be a significant setback.

“I’m not sure. We’ll see how it’s feeling throughout the week, but I’m hoping to play,” Bowers said when asked about the injury on September 11, per ESPN.

Moreover, ESPN’s Ryan McFadden reported that Bowers didn’t practice on September 12, raising more concern about whether the star tight end will be ready for the Monday Night Football game.

Chargers Star Eager to Face Brock Bowers

It’s still unclear if Bowers will be cleared to face Los Angeles, but at least one opponent hopes he’s on the field.

Chargers safety Derwin James said he wants Bowers to suit up for their Week 2 matchup, saying he’ll be ready to face the Raiders’ standout tight end.

“Man, one of the best tight ends in the league,” James told reporters on September 12 (h/t Fernando Ramirez of The Sporting Tribune).

“Probably the best tight end in this league now, I could say that—one of the best. Fast, can run all the routes, man—great young player.

“I can’t wait for that matchup. I look forward to it, man. Like I said, he’s a great young player.

Seeing him at the Pro Bowl—he was on the AFC team—but man, I’m excited to go against him. It’s going to be a lot of fun.”