(Photo credit: The Raider Way / Vegas Sports Today)
The Las Vegas Raiders have a promising rookie class for the 2023 NFL season. In this article, we’ll be comparing each of the Las Vegas Raiders’ rookies to current or former NFL players. We’ll look at their physical attributes, playing style, and overall potential to see how they stack up against some of the best players in the league. We’ll also discuss how these rookies can help the Raiders become a competitive team in the upcoming season.
“I pride myself on being physical out there, there’s no doubt about it. I like to put people in the dirt, and I like to run over people.”
Mayer’s Notre Dame career started with a bang, as he garnered Freshman All-American and third-team All-ACC honors by tying for the Irish lead with 42 receptions (450 yards, 10.7 per, two TDs in 12 games, three starts). He again topped the squad with 71 receptions (840 yards, 11.8 per) and tied for the team lead with seven receiving scores in 12 starts his sophomore campaign. Mayer was a first-team Associated Press All-American and John Mackey Award (nation’s top tight end) finalist his junior season, breaking his own school record for tight ends with nine receiving touchdowns and leading the team with 67 receptions for 809 receiving yards.
Michael Mayer’s Strengths
Possesses ideal frame and demeanor to play Y tight end in the NFL.
Makes effort to strain and win his run blocks.
Meets defender with foot slide to gain positioning.
Fits up his run blocks with decent force.
Can climb on top of defender’s toes before snapping break off.
Maintains his stride speed through route turns.
Rarely distracted by route or catch conflict.
Sinks suddenly into zone void and presents numbers to his quarterback.
Plays big when it’s time to win the contested catch
Michael Mayer’s Weaknesses
Needs to get into blocks with quicker hands.
Sluggish release and acceleration off the line.
Won’t generate much separation at stems and turns.
Occasional slips getting out of breaks underneath.
Likely to see heavier contested catch totals at the next level.
Upper body looks a little tight when reaching outside the frame to catch.
Below average run-after-catch talent.
Michael Mayer Notre Dame Scouting Film
Michael Mayer’s NFL pro player comparison is Zach Ertz
Photo credit: USA TODAY
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