In a Las Vegas Raiders season that’s been highly disappointing, one undeniable bright spot has been the rookie class, which continues shining.
Regardless of your opinions about general manager Tom Telesco, he has successfully assembled one of the most impressive rookie classes for the Raiders in recent memory. Yes, Brock Bowers fell on his lap, but how many former GMs would’ve gotten cute and reached for a “fit” or “potential” rather than just taking the best player available—not just that, arguably the best offensive player who wasn’t a quarterback.
Not only did Telesco select Bowers, but it also seems that he may have found the future anchor of the Raiders’ offensive line in Jackson Powers-Johnson. All in all, the fact that Telesco nailed these two picks gives Silver and Black a solid foundation, despite the unimpressive record.
Raiders QB Gardner Minshew heaps praise on the rookie duo…
There’s no sugarcoating it, but Andre James struggled mightily this season after receiving a new deal this past offseason. Jackson-Powers took over the starting duties and hasn’t looked back since casting aside the incumbent center. Struggles aside, no one’s been more familiar with JPJ’s growth and ascent than Gardner Minshew.
The beset starting quarterback for the Raiders recently weighed in on the prized offensive lineman as he addressed the media ahead of Sunday’s game.
“He’s done a great job, man. We’re asking a ton of that dude. Like, I mean, a guy that was beat up for a lot of the offseason, didn’t get a ton of reps then, is getting put in, and man, he’s answered the call. And I think everybody kind of rallies around him, has great energy, and does a great job kind of leading that group.”
Along with Powers-Johnson, Bowers has also emerged as a future cog for the Silver and Black. In fact, we could be looking at the NFL’s next great tight end.
Brock Bowers, next Offensive Rookie of the Year?
Bowers is one of the few positives that has gone right for Las Vegas in 2024. Everyone knew the Georgia product was talented, but it’s unlikely anyone could’ve predicted such a dominant start. Minshew, like the rest of us, is also in awe of this.
“There’s not much he can’t do, man. I’m super glad we have him, and super excited for everything he’s going to be in his career. I mean he just continues to surprise you. He makes plays every day that you’re like, ‘Wow.’ And we just got to keep being creative, keep finding ways to get him the ball and let him do his thing.”
Despite the negative response to his endzone celebration, Raiders fans have little to complain about. What’s truly exciting is the prospect of Bowers playing under a true offensive coordinator with an explosive quarterback next season (Shedeur Sanders, anyone?). For now, let’s bask in the glory that is No. 89, shall we?
*Top Photo: The Raider Ramble
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