Las Vegas Raiders quarterback Kirk Cousins has found a new appreciation for tight end Brock Bowers, comparing the rookie's ability to make plays even when covered to that of Minnesota Vikings star wide receiver Justin Jefferson.
Cousins, whose game is built on accuracy and reading defenses, admitted that Bowers' talent forces him to challenge his own instincts. He recalled a similar situation with Jefferson in Minnesota, where he sometimes had to be reminded by coach Kevin O'Connell to throw to the star receiver even when double-covered.
"When he’s covered, you still need to throw it," Cousins said, referring to Bowers, echoing O'Connell's message about Jefferson. "That kind of breaks my instincts. My instincts are progressing and throw to open guys."
Bowers demonstrated this ability in the Raiders' 38-33 victory over the New York Jets on Sunday, November 1, 2026. He caught two touchdown passes, including one spectacular one-handed grab in traffic and another while surrounded by three defenders. He finished the game with seven catches for 92 yards and the two scores.
Cousins acknowledged that while his instincts push him to find open receivers, Bowers is earning the exception to that rule. "There are moments this year where I can be better," Cousins said, "and there’s moments where I’m starting to figure that out."
The quarterback's willingness to trust Bowers, even when coverage is tight, is a testament to the rookie's impact and potential, forcing Cousins to redefine what "open" means in the context of his targets.