Let’s face it; we’ve said this before: This upcoming season is a critical one for Michael Mayer.
Since the Las Vegas Raiders traded up to draft the tight end in 2023, there has been big expectations for the Notre Dame product. While he has had some solid moments, things haven’t really clicked on a consistent baiss for Mayer.
Drafted to be a top-tier tight end, Mayer’s role changed somewhat in 2024 when the Raiders unexpectedly drafted a falling Brock Bowers in the first round. Bowers instantly showed
he was an elite player, reducing Mayer’s role some.
Still, teams use double tight sets a lot and here has been expectations for Mayer. That remains the same this year under in head coach Klint Kubiak. So, there is a chance for Mayer to have a big role in the Raiders’ offense along with Bowers. This season is of extreme importance for Mayer’s NFL future.
He is set to become a free agent next offseason. So, if he does finally put together a strong season, He could become a top free agent target and he could make a ton of money. However, if he doesn’t produce much and he is blocked by Bowers’ presence in the offense, Mayer may look to move on to get a better chance elsewhere albeit on a likely modest contract.
Bowers will be eligible for a second contract next year and the Raiders will likely want to lock him up as soon as they can. It, of course, won’t come cheaply, though. So, the Raiders may not want to invest in two tight ends for the long term regardless of the season Mayer has in 2026.
So, yes, this is a big season coming up for Mayer. Do you think Mayer will be playing his final season with the Raiders?
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