The Raiders tight end’s seven receptions for 77 yards gives him a total of 108 receptions for 1,144 yards in 16 games this season, surpassing the mark for a rookie that Mike Ditka set in 1961 with 1,067 receiving yards, as well as the 2023 record of Puka Nacua of 105 receptions by a rookie at any position
In addition, Bowers also surpassed the franchise mark of 107 receptions in a season set by Darren Waller in 2020.
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“It’s pretty surprising to me,” Bowers said. “I try not to set goals, like numbers and stuff. I just try to ask myself, ‘How can I help the team the best I can?‘ And just catch the ball when it comes to me.”
Selected by the Las Vegas Raiders 13th overall out of Georgia, Bowers surpassed Ditka’s mark when he made a 13-yard reception late in the second quarter.
“It’s super impressive. He looks like a veteran out there,” said Raiders quarterback Aidan O’Connell. “I played as a rookie. I know how hard it is… and then to set historic records is crazy.”
Bowers admitted he knew “little” about Ditka, who set his rookie mark in what was then a 14-game regular season.
The Raiders rookie finished his collegiate career with 2,538 yards and 26 receiving touchdowns in 40 games before declaring for the 2024 NFL Draft, where he was the first tight end to be selected.
“From day one I said he was special when he walked through the door and today was special again,” said Raiders coach Antonio Pierce. “He doesn’t want attention… All he cares about is winning and smiling. He can break records, but just look at him after wins. That’s the real Brock Bowers because he’s a competitor. He’s a true professional. It’s scary how good this kid can be.”
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