San Francisco 49ers star tight end George Kittle compared Las Vegas Raiders rookie Brock Bowers to a pair of All-Pro receivers, saying Bowers runs routes fully extended like Mike Evans and attacks the ball downhill like Deebo Samuel. Kittle also noted the trust between Bowers and quarterback Kirk Cousins, saying Cousins will throw the ball up to Bowers even when he appears covered because of their connection.
Bowers is coming off a two-touchdown performance against the New York Jets, including a one-handed grab. Linebacker Fred Warner called Bowers one of the best players in the league regardless of position, emphasizing his ability to run every route and catch away from his body like a high-end receiver. Defensive coordinator Raheem Morris labeled Bowers "the ultimate 'Joker'" for his versatility to line up anywhere.
Cousins, who is second in the NFL in touchdown passes, has found a rhythm with Bowers throwing into traffic. Morris, who coached Cousins for two seasons with the Atlanta Falcons, described the quarterback as an all-time progression passer who prepares like a computer and is playing with genuine enthusiasm. Morris said he was not surprised by Cousins' recent success after watching him lead a four-game winning streak in Atlanta late last season.
The 49ers defense will get reinforcements with defensive tackle DeForest Buckner returning via trade and edge rusher Nick Bosa back from calf and knee injuries. Warner also highlighted Raiders running back Ashton Jeanty as a threat with contact balance and receiving ability, despite fewer carries in the last game. San Francisco's top-rated defense under Morris will face one of the league's top passing offenses Sunday.
Sources: Las Vegas Review-Journal
Original reporting: Las Vegas Review-Journal →
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