Rookie tight end Michael Mayer was one of the bright spots for the Las Vegas Raiders last season, showcasing his potential as a second-round draft pick. Despite the Raiders selecting tight end Brock Bowers in the first round of this year’s draft, Mayer was still anticipated to play an essential role in the offense.
However, through the first three games, Mayer saw only seven targets and participated in 56% of the team’s offensive snaps. He then took a leave from the team for personal reasons, leading the Raiders to place him on the non-football illness list without specifying the cause.
Head coach Antonio Pierce recently shared that Mayer was close to rejoining the team, and Mayer has now returned to practice ahead of the Raiders’ Week 11 matchup against the Miami Dolphins, as reported by Shanna McCarriston of CBS Sports.
The Raiders are glad to have Mayer, the No. 35 pick in the 2023 NFL Draft, back at practice after his month-long absence. Neither Mayer nor the team has disclosed the reason behind his leave.
After being placed on the non-football illness list on October 11, Mayer remained out until his recent return. With a bye in Week 10, the Raiders are set to face the Dolphins in Week 11.
Mayer’s return is timely for a Raiders offense in need of additional playmakers. Besides Bowers, who has quickly become one of the most dynamic tight ends in the league, the Raiders’ offensive depth has been impacted by the trade of Davante Adams and injuries to Jakobi Meyers.
While Bowers has solidified his position as the starting tight end, Mayer still has the chance to make a meaningful contribution as the Raiders work to turn around a difficult season.
Additionally, Mayer’s return comes with a new offensive setup as Luke Getsy has been replaced by Scott Turner as offensive coordinator. Running back Alexander Mattison, familiar with Turner from their time with the Minnesota Vikings, expressed excitement about Turner’s play-calling abilities and his potential to enhance the Raiders’ run game.