Las Vegas Raiders head coach Antonio Pierce has recognized the ‘it’ factor in rookie tight end Brock Bowers since day one. Bowers, a 21-year-old from Napa, California, has impressed everyone except himself with his performance in the first two games of the season. Despite his stoic and reserved demeanor, Bowers has been a standout player on the field, making NFL history as the first tight end with at least five receptions and 50 receiving yards in each of his first two games.

Bowers’ exceptional start to the season includes 15 receptions and 156 yards, the most for a rookie tight end post-merger. He also holds the second-highest catch percentage in the league at 88.2%, just behind Chris Godwin of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Acknowledging his success, Bowers credits his time at Georgia for preparing him for the transition to the professional level.

Raiders quarterback Gardner Minshew praised Bowers for his consistent playmaking abilities and the trust he has earned from the team. As the Raiders prepare to host the Carolina Panthers in their home opener, Bowers’ presence on the field is anticipated to continue making an impact. However, several Raiders players, including Maxx Crosby, Tommy Eichenberg, and Kolton Miller, were limited in practice due to various injuries.

Crosby, in particular, received his fifth AFC Defensive Player of the Week award for his outstanding performance in the Raiders’ recent victory against the Baltimore Ravens. With six tackles, four tackles for loss, two sacks, and a pass defensed, Crosby showcased his defensive prowess, leading the AFC in tackles for loss in a single game this season.

As Brock Bowers continues to impress in his rookie campaign, the Raiders look forward to his contributions on the field, especially in the upcoming game against the Panthers. Despite his reserved demeanor off the field, Bowers’ impact is felt and recognized by his teammates and coaches alike.