Raiders place TE Michael Mayer on NFI checklist

Brock Bowers has loved a powerful begin to the 2024 season, however his fellow Raiders tight finish might be absent for an prolonged interval. Michael Mayer was positioned on the reserve/non-football damage checklist Friday, per a group announcement.

Because of the transfer, Mayer might be sidelined for no less than the subsequent 4 video games. Specifics on his state of affairs will not be but identified, however it was introduced {that a} private matter is the trigger for this transaction. The 23-year-old suited up for Vegas’ first three video games, however he has been absent ever since.

Seen as one of many high prospects at his place within the 2023 draft class, Mayer was chosen early within the second spherical. That led to excessive expectations, and he flashed potential with 304 yards and a pair of touchdowns on 27 receptions throughout his rookie marketing campaign. Identified extra for his well-rounder talent set than his pass-catching upside, Mayer was joined this offseason by Bowers. Probably the most celebrated rookie tight ends in current reminiscence, the latter — chosen thirteenth general in April — has already racked up 28 receptions for 313 yards and one rating.

Bowers will proceed to be leaned on within the passing sport transferring ahead, particularly with Davante Adams absent. A deal sending the All-Professional wideout continues to be negotiated, and Bowers might quickly stand alone as Vergas’ high goal on offense. Week 6 will see Aidan O’Connell begin at quarterback after Gardner Minshew struggled in Sunday’s loss to the Broncos.

O’Connell might be on the helm of a short-handed offense, although, with Adams out of the fold and Mayer set to overlook prolonged interval. Bringing the Notre Dame product again into the fold will give Bowers a notable complement on the TE spot, however it stays to be seen when that may happen.