Could a Change of Scenery Help Michael Mayer's Career?

The Miami Dolphins traded two valuable starters to the Pittsburgh Steelers, sending cornerback Jalen Ramsey, tight end Jonnu Smith, and a 2027 seventh-round pick to Pittsburgh in exchange for safety Minkah Fitzpatrick and a 2027 fifth-round pick. Shortly after this news broke, NFL Media reported that the Dolphins were already discussing acquiring a tight end to replace Smith.

The Raiders selected Mayer with the No. 35 overall pick in the 2023 NFL Draft out of Notre Dame. In 14 games played as a rookie, he caught 27 passes for 304 yards and two touchdowns, leading the Raiders to use the No. 13 overall pick in the following year’s draft on former Georgia tight end Brock Bowers. In 2024, Bowers put together the best season by a rookie tight end in NFL history, catching 112 passes for 1,194 yards and five touchdowns, while Mayer caught 21 passes for 156 yards and zero touchdowns in 11 games played.

Mayer has two more years remaining on his rookie contract and is someone who could use a change of scenery. Coming out of Notre Dame, he was compared to NFL legend Jason Witten—a reliable blocker and receiver who could impact a game despite lacking top-end athleticism. However, his career has gotten off to a slow start, as Mayer has crossed 50 yards receiving in just two of his 25 games played.

This could be the start of something fresh for Mayer, who is clearly in need of it. Vegas is firmly set on Brock Bowers as their TE1, and rightfully so. Therefore, a change of scenery for Mayer could be just what he needs to revitalize his career.