Raiders' Brock Bowers, 21, Sets NFL Rookie TE Record with 87 Receptions, Surpasses Sam LaPorta

Dec 8, 2024, 07:07 PM

Brock Bowers, the 21-year-old rookie tight end for the Las Vegas Raiders, set a new NFL record for most receptions by a rookie tight end during Sunday's game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Bowers recorded his 87th catch of the season, surpassing the previous record of 86 held by Sam LaPorta from 2023. Leading the NFL with 87 receptions and ranking fourth with 113 targets, Bowers has amassed 884 receiving yards and 4 touchdowns over 12 games, averaging 10.5 yards per reception and 73.7 yards per game. In his last game, he recorded 140 receiving yards, and he's had 70 or more yards in four consecutive games with quarterback Aidan O’Connell, receiving 10, 12, 14, and 14 targets in those contests. Bowers has achieved three games with double-digit receptions, a feat matched by only two other rookies since 2000: Odell Beckham Jr. and Jaylen Waddle. NFL legend Howie Long has praised Bowers' versatility, noting his exceptional contribution to the team. Bowers' outstanding performance has strengthened his case for the NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year award. With four games remaining in the season, Bowers has the opportunity to further extend his record, potentially putting it out of reach for future rookies.