Fantasy Upside
Michael Mayer had a strong finish to his career at Notre Dame last season, catching 67 balls for 809 yards and nine touchdowns. Mayer is a do-it-all tight end who can run, block, and catch, and he brings a lunch pail mentality to the game. He’s one of the rare rookie tight ends who is probably ready to play right away, and he goes to a team in need of a new starter after shipping Darren Waller off to the Giants.
Fantasy Downside
The Raiders look like they could be a mess offensively, especially if Jimmy Garoppolo isn’t 100% healthy to start the season. Rookie tight ends often struggle to produce right away, so even though Mayer is polished, history doesn’t suggest an immediate fantasy weapon. The Raiders also signed journeyman Austin Hooper, who will compete for starter snaps.
2023 Bottom Line
Mayer is a nice dynasty asset and has some upside in deeper leagues, but unless you’re carrying two tight ends and looking for a risky backup option, he’s probably not worth rostering in most league formats as a rookie.
