After a rough 2024 campaign, Las Vegas Raiders tight end Michael Mayer appears to be turning a corner.
According to multiple reports from training camp, Mayer caught two touchdowns from quarterback Geno Smith during the 7-on-7 period of practice. Levi Edwards of Raiders.com also stated that Mayer has been standing out this offseason.
"Michael Mayer has caught two touchdowns during 7-on-7 period so far. He’s been having a really impressive offseason," Edwards wrote on X.
"During red zone 7-on-7, Raiders QB Geno Smith completed back to back TDs to TE Michael Mayer. On the first TD, Smith threw the ball to the back of the end zone, where Mayer made a two-handed grab w/ Lonnie Johnson Jr. in coverage," Ryan McFadden of ESPN wrote on X.
After a promising rookie season in 2023, Mayer struggled to find a rhythm in 2024. The young tight end missed six games last year due to personal reasons and wasn't very effective when on the field, snagging just 21 receptions for 156 yards in 11 contests.
Heading into 2025, Brock Bowers will reprise his role as the starting tight end after an All-Pro rookie season in 2024. However, Mayer could also still find a role in Chip Kelly's offense and be a productive member of the unit.
The Notre Dame product is a solid run blocker that has a ton of potential in the aerial attack. Las Vegas would be wise to maximize its talent and utilize a ton of two-tight-end sets where Bowers and Mayer are on the field at the same time.
It's great to hear that Mayer is flourishing at camp after taking a step back in 2024. The 24-year-old could be in for a major bounce-back season in 2025.
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