The Las Vegas Raiders have been playing without their top pass catcher, tight end Brock Bowers, for three weeks. Will the 22-year-old star be able to return to the field in Week 9?

Bowers returned to Raiders practice following the team’s Week 8 bye. That is sparking hope the 2024 All-Pro should be able to return to the field in Week 9 as the Raiders prepare to face the Jacksonville Jaguars.

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Here’s what to know about Bowers’ status for Week 9 as he recovers from a nagging knee injury.

Bowers appears to be tracking to play in Week 9. He was a full participant in Raiders practice Wednesday and told ESPN’s Ryan McFadden he is “ready to roll” after a three-game absence.

“The first part of the season was tough [and] not feeling 100%, but I’m closer now,” Bowers said.

Raiders coach Pete Carroll seemed to believe Bowers would be ready to return to the field. He said the second-year tight end “looks great” and appears to be back at “full speed” ahead of Las Vegas’ Week 9 matchup with the Jacksonville Jaguars.

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“Last week, he looked good every day, particularly good on the Monday practice,” Carroll told reporters at an Oct. 29 news conference. “And he kind of stole the show a little bit. So, we’re thrilled to have him back.”

Brock Bowers injury update

Bowers has been dealing with a knee injury since the Raiders’ Week 1 win over the New England Patriots. He played through a PCL injury and a bone bruise before Las Vegas shut him down ahead of Week 5, per ESPN’s Adam Schefter.

Bowers logged two limited practices from Weeks 5 through 7 while being listed as a non-participant at seven sessions. His full participation in the Raiders’ Oct. 29 practice was his first since the leadup to Week 4.

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Raiders TE depth chart

The Raiders have five tight ends in their organization, with four currently on their 53-man roster. Below is a look at the pecking order within the group:

1. Brock Bowers

Mayer was the primary beneficiary of Bowers’ absence. He has 12 catches for 107 yards and a touchdown on the season. He will continue to see action as the Raiders’ No. 2 tight end, but Bowers figures to absorb the majority of the Notre Dame