Michael Mayer, the second-round pick from the 2023 NFL Draft, is returning to the practice field. After sitting out the final two games with a concussion, he’ll be back. Mayer has only six catches for 47 yards on the season. He was taken out of action after suffering a concussion while trying to bring down Jaylin Lane in the Week 3 defeat at the hands of the Washington Commanders.
In the fencing position due to being injured, Mayer found herself in the chosen melee during the match. This raised instant alarm about his well-being. He was able to pass through concussion protocol and has been a full participant in team practices since then, hinting at a solid recovery and return to action.
Mayer’s return to the field has been something the coaching staff and fans as well have been waiting for. Chip Kelly, the team’s head coach, expressed confidence in Mayer’s capabilities.
“We’ve always considered Mike a starting tight end in this league,” – Chip Kelly
Mayer has returned to daily practice and is training harder than ever. He’s now preparing to step into his new role as the team’s first-string tight end going forward. The team truly missed his absence during those games he missed. They had a hard enough time tweaking their play calling without an all-world tight end in the lineup.
Kelly elaborated on the impact of missing Mayer, stating, “You lose the premier tight end in the NFL, and play calling is different.” Mayer has been indispensable as a pass catcher. Beyond his playmaking ability, he deeply influences the team’s macro strategy on offense.
As the Raiders get ready for a critical stretch towards the end of the season, getting Mayer back would be a significant boon to their sporadic offense. His leadership will be critical to any success his new squad achieves this season, as both parties hope to put 2022 behind them.
“I am ecstatic to be back on the field,” – Michael Mayer
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