The Las Vegas Raiders have found their franchise tight end in Brock Bowers. The 2024 first-round pick shattered every major rookie tight end record last season and is already making a case as the best player at his position in the NFL.
After trading Darren Waller following the 2022 season, the Raiders drafted Michael Mayer in the second round out of Notre Dame, expecting him to be their future at tight end. However, in two seasons, he has recorded just 48 catches for 460 yards.
Now, Mayer’s future with the team appears uncertain. According to The Athletic’s Vic Tafur and Tashan Reed, the Raiders are open to discussing trade options for him. The team recently signed former Carolina Panthers tight end Ian Thomas, who brings starting experience.
With Thomas now in the mix, trading Mayer becomes more justifiable. Given Bowers’ presence as the clear No. 1 tight end, Mayer may benefit from a fresh start elsewhere, making a trade seem increasingly likely.
Mayer Named Best Raiders Trade Candidate
The Raiders have several roster needs, so acquiring an asset in exchange for Michael Mayer could be an appealing move. While he still has the potential to develop into a quality player, Las Vegas simply doesn’t have a pressing need for him.
According to Bradley Locker of Pro Football Focus, Mayer is currently the Raiders’ most valuable trade asset.
“Las Vegas’ offensive blueprint is slowly coming together after the team traded for Geno Smith,” Locker wrote in a March 20 column. “The Raiders will undoubtedly look to upgrade their skill-position talent in the draft, but Mayer might not be part of those plans.
“The Notre Dame product played just 461 snaps last season while dealing with a personal issue. Additionally, over two years, he has yet to earn a 60.0 overall grade from PFF. While Pete Carroll could use Mayer alongside Brock Bowers in 12 personnel, reports indicate he has been floated in trade discussions. At just 23 years old, he could draw interest if made available.”
With Bowers locked in as the Raiders’ top tight end, moving Mayer could help them address other areas of need on the roster.
How Much Is Mayer Worth in a Trade?
The Raiders are unlikely to receive a second-round pick in return for Michael Mayer. Two years have passed since he was drafted, and he has missed nine games in that span. Realistically, the best offer Las Vegas might get is a third-round pick, and even that could be a stretch.
However, a team that was high on Mayer coming out of college might be willing to pay a premium for him. Anything less than a fourth-round pick wouldn’t be worth it for the Raiders.
At that point, they might be better off keeping him and seeing if he can increase his value with a strong 2025 season. With a legitimate quarterback in Geno Smith and a new offensive coordinator in Chip Kelly, the Raiders could utilize more 12 personnel effectively, potentially giving Mayer a chance to contribute and improve his trade stock for the future.
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