​The Las Vegas Raiders already have the NFL’s top tight end in Brock Bowers, and the wider league acknowledges it. In a recent ESPN poll reported by Jeremy Fowler, executives, coaches, and scouts crowned Bowers as the best tight end in football. He earned that distinction despite navigating a challenging sophomore season on the league’s weakest offense, and the Raiders now have to find a way to maximize his impact in 2026. One NFL coordinator described what makes Bowers stand out: “In route running, separation, zone instincts, yards after catch, and overall versatility, he’s ahead of the field.”
Bowers’ rookie year clearly showed he was either the best at his position or on the cusp of that level. The follow-up season told a grimmer tale on the surface, with injuries hampering his production throughout the year. Beyond health concerns, he played behind a fragile offense—on the league’s worst team, with a troubled offensive line and inconsistent quarterback play. In a scenario that would test any player, Bowers remained a constant threat on the field. That resilience is what separates an elite talent from a mere standout. Even amid the harshest of circumstances, he demonstrated why decision-makers across the league consider him the top tight end in the sport.
Looking ahead, the Raiders are better positioned to maximize Bowers in 2026. The team could be led by either Kirk Cousins, the seasoned veteran at quarterback, or rookie Fernando Mendoza. They will also have Ashton Jeanty in the backfield, a strengthened offensive line with improved depth, and a wide receiver corps that could take a step forward if the young players take the leaps many expect. Bowers can do it all. He is the Raiders’ best playmaker whether or not he touches the ball, consistently finding open space, hauling in downfield throws, and flashing one-handed catches that echo the high expectations that followed him from college as a potential generational talent. His blocking is not perfect yet, but it is a solid contribution and an area that can continue to improve.
Coach Klint Kubiak prioritizes the run game, with Jeanty expected to be the driving force of the offense. Yet, when the Raiders aren’t handing the ball off, Bowers should be the primary target, and the importance of that role should be clear. Kubiak’s objective will be to funnel opportunities to Bowers in 2026, and if he succeeds in doing so consistently, the team should see meaningful offensive gains.
The crucial factor for Vegas is recognizing how tightly Bowers’ output is tied to the effectiveness of the run game. A functional ground attack with Jeanty creates more favorable routes and mismatches for Bowers to exploit. If the run game stalls, Bowers will not receive the same quality looks, and sustaining drives becomes more difficult for the offense.
Offseason moves reflect a concerted effort to reinforce this concept. A stronger offensive line benefits both the run game and pass protection, and having a viable quarterback on the field increases Bowers’ chances to connect with a passer who can consistently deliver the ball. With improved protection, a more balanced attack, and a home in the Raiders’ offense for Bowers, 2026 could be the year he cements his status as the game’s premier tight end and helps push Las Vegas toward serious contention.