Raiders’ Brock Bowers doubtful vs. Chargers but could be game-time decision

Brock Bowers remains doubtful for the Las Vegas Raiders’ Sunday matchup against the Los Angeles Chargers, though he could still be a game‑time decision. The tight end underwent a procedure on his near knee just 12 days ago. He appeared on the field with teammates at the start of Friday’s practice, and head coach Klint Kubiak noted that the primary tight end would be worked out during pre‑game warmups before the Raiders face the Chargers. Bowers is officially listed as doubtful. Last week Bowers had a meniscus trim and was able to participate in a limited fashion on Friday. During the portion of practice open to the media, he stretched and ran along a sideline stretch while the remainder of the squad warmed up. His potential availability would provide a noticeable lift to an offense that struggled to move the ball downfield in the previous week’s 27‑13 victory over the Miami Dolphins. The outlook is less encouraging for starting cornerback Darien Porter, who has been ruled out for Sunday with a foot injury sustained in the win over Miami. Porter has not practiced all week, and his absence could create additional snaps for rookie fifth‑round selection Hezekiah Masses, who enjoyed a strong training camp. Masses entered the season opener in the fourth quarter and logged the final 10 defensive snaps. He was immediately tested when the Dolphins targeted him on the near sideline on his first play, and he responded by breaking up the pass. Defensive coordinator Rob Leonard remarked, “That’s how it should be. You play similar to how you practice. I was assured with him out there, and he went and did his job.” Kubiak echoed the sentiment, stating, “Zeke was ready for his moment and played good football (Sunday),” adding that he did not specify whether Masses or Jermod McCoy would start. “He’s had a good training camp, and there’s a long play ahead, but he’s never lacked confidence,” Kubiak said. Leonard stopped short of naming a starter, noting that several young cornerbacks have been practicing well and could be in the mix for playing time. That group could include fourth‑round pick Jermod McCoy, who did not see the field in his debut. Leonard commented on McCoy’s progress, saying, “He’s right where he should be. Practice is huge, competing, and he’s right in the class with everybody competing to play.” Aidan O’Connell, who served as the emergency third‑back last week, missed a second straight practice for personal reasons that Kubiak described as a family matter, leaving him expected to be unavailable for the trip to the game.