For the first time in his NFL career, Las Vegas Raiders tight end Brock Bowers is experiencing a complete offseason program. Last year, the rookie skipped most of organized team activities to return to the University of Georgia and finish his degree. This spring, he’s present from the start.

“It feels a lot different because last year I was back in school,” Bowers said Thursday at Bank of America’s Golf with Us Clinic at Las Vegas Golf Club. “So to be able to start with OTAs and really get into the routine with all the guys has been good. It’s been really fun.”

The 3-14 Raiders have undergone a significant transformation under new head coach Klint Kubiak, who has installed an offense that Bowers believes will feature tight ends heavily. Bowers studied how Kubiak used the position in Seattle, especially with AJ Barner.

“They used tight ends a bunch,” Bowers said. “Barner is a beast. I loved watching him play and what they were able to do with him.”

While the offense is currently being run by veteran quarterback Kirk Cousins, the team is expected to select a franchise passer with the No. 1 pick in next week’s NFL Draft. Bowers, who deflected a question from a young golfer about his preferred draft choice, said he hasn’t seen the clip of Cousins calling him the best tight end in the league after signing.

“I haven’t seen that, but he’s the man,” Bowers said, smiling. “Having him around the building has been great because he brings great energy and attitude. I’m excited to work with him.”

The Raiders also added two of Bowers’ former Georgia teammates, linebackers Quay Walker and Nakobe Dean, to the defense. Bowers called their arrival “big-time” and said they bring a presence and football intelligence.

Off the field, Bowers has become an avid golfer, playing regularly in an offseason group that includes punter AJ Cole. He participated in a youth clinic Wednesday aimed at making golf more accessible to Las Vegas children. Bank of America Las Vegas president Al Welch said the program provides clubs and $5 memberships at multiple courses, with a goal of 150,000 participants this year.

“I think it’s important to be involved with kids in the community and getting them into sports is a big thing for me because sports really changed my life,” Bowers said. “Hopefully, they can find something to be passionate about.”