Las Vegas Raiders tight end Michael Mayer is back on the field after a six-game absence. The second-year tight end, who had been sidelined due to personal reasons, returned to practice on Tuesday, signaling that his sophomore campaign is about to resume. Mayer, who was placed on the non-football injury list in early October, now has 21 days for the Raiders to activate him to the active roster.
Mayer showed promise during his rookie year, recording 27 catches for 304 yards and two touchdowns. However, with the Raiders investing a first-round pick in Brock Bowers this offseason, Mayer is now positioned as a backup. Despite this, he remains a key part of the Raiders’ plans, having previously played in over 50% of offensive snaps before his absence. As the Raiders face the Dolphins on Sunday, Mayer’s return could provide a boost to their offense, with potential to see significant playing time alongside Bowers.
Mayer’s return comes at a critical time for the Raiders, who have been navigating through a series of injuries and lineup changes. While Brock Bowers’ increased snap count signals the rookie’s growing role, Mayer’s experience and familiarity with the offense could make him a valuable contributor in the second half of the season.
Before his absence, Mayer was an integral part of the Raiders’ offense, showing off his versatility and ability to make plays in key situations. Although he had some competition with the arrival of Bowers, Mayer’s strong performances during his rookie season have earned him respect within the organization. As the team approaches its stretch run, it’s likely that the Raiders will look to balance the two tight ends, giving Mayer opportunities to re-establish himself while contributing to the team’s overall success.
The Raiders’ tight end depth has been tested in Mayer’s absence, with Harrison Bryant and John Samuel Shenker stepping up to fill the void. However, Mayer’s return provides a significant boost to the unit, giving the Raiders a more dynamic and reliable option as they aim to stay competitive for a playoff spot. If Mayer can get back to form quickly, he could provide a much-needed spark for Las Vegas down the stretch.
