The Las Vegas Raiders made one of the offseason’s most significant coaching hires when they brought in Klint Kubiak as their new head coach. Fresh off a Super Bowl-winning campaign as the Seattle Seahawks’ offensive coordinator, Kubiak arrives in Las Vegas with a reputation for maximizing talent and building adaptable offensive systems.
His first major challenge will be revitalizing a Raiders team that has struggled to establish consistency in recent seasons. While Las Vegas possesses several intriguing pieces on offense, one player stands above the rest as the unit’s clear focal point: tight end Brock Bowers.
After a historic rookie season in 2024, expectations surrounding Bowers reached enormous heights. However, his sophomore campaign proved more difficult, leaving many to wonder whether the talented pass catcher could recapture the form that made him one of the NFL’s brightest young stars.
According to ESPN analyst Ben Solak, the answer may depend heavily on Kubiak’s approach. If recent history is any indication, Bowers could be in line for one of the largest workloads in the league during the upcoming season.
1. Kubiak’s Offensive Philosophy
Kubiak earned considerable praise during his time in Seattle for his ability to construct an offense around its greatest strengths. Despite dealing with questions along the offensive line and relying on quarterback Sam Darnold, the Seahawks developed into one of the league’s most effective units.
A major factor in that success was Kubiak’s willingness to lean heavily on his top playmaker. Wide receiver Jaxon Smith-Njigba became the centerpiece of Seattle’s passing attack, consistently receiving opportunities in critical situations throughout the season.
Smith-Njigba’s production reflected that emphasis. He accounted for more than 44 percent of the team’s receiving yards and was targeted at an exceptionally high rate, becoming the unquestioned focal point of the offense on the way to Offensive Player of the Year honors.
That tendency could carry over to Las Vegas. With a roster that lacks established star power at wide receiver, Kubiak may once again build his passing game around a single elite talent—this time in the form of Bowers.
2. Brock Bowers’ Opportunity
Few young players entered the NFL with as much promise as Bowers. His rookie season immediately demonstrated why he was considered one of the most complete tight end prospects in recent memory.
Combining size, athleticism, and versatility, Bowers quickly emerged as a matchup problem for opposing defenses. His ability to line up in multiple positions made him a valuable weapon and allowed the Raiders to use him in a variety of situations.
Although his 2025 season did not match the extraordinary standards established during his rookie campaign, many around the league remain convinced that his long-term outlook remains exceptionally bright. At just 24 years old, Bowers still has considerable room for growth.
Solak believes Kubiak’s arrival could accelerate that development. While Bowers is not the same type of player as Smith-Njigba, his unique skill set may allow him to occupy a similarly prominent role within the offense.
3. A New Identity for the Raiders
The Raiders’ receiving corps entering the season features several promising players, including Tre Tucker, Jalen Nailor, Jack Bech, and Dont’e Thornton Jr. However, none have established themselves as consistent, high-volume options at the professional level.
That reality places additional importance on Bowers. If Kubiak chooses to follow the blueprint that proved successful in Seattle, the tight end could become one of the most heavily targeted players in football regardless of position.
Of course, the specifics will differ. Tight ends are typically utilized differently than wide receivers, and Bowers’ responsibilities will likely include creating mismatches against linebackers and safeties rather than consistently operating on the perimeter.
Nevertheless, the potential is undeniable. Kubiak has demonstrated an ability to design offenses around elite talent, and Bowers possesses the physical tools to become one of the NFL’s premier offensive players. If the partnership develops as expected, Las Vegas may finally have the foundation it needs to build a sustainable winner.