Raiders Sign Michael Mayer To Rookie Deal

The Las Vegas Raiders announced on Wednesday that they signed second-round tight end Michael Mayer to his rookie contract. Financial terms of the deal weren't disclosed. The 6-foot-4, 265-pounder was taken with the 35th overall pick in this year's NFL draft out of Notre Dame. As a three-year starter for the Fighting Irish, Mayer set program records with 180 catches for 2,099 yards (11.7 yards per catch) and 18 touchdowns in 36 games (28 starts). The 21-year-old was one of the best tight ends available in what could have been the strongest class ever at the position. Mayer's speed doesn't impress, but he's a good route-runner with strong hands, and he could eventually become the starter in 2023 now that Darren Waller is in New York. Still, fantasy managers should temper expectations for Mayer in Year 1, and he'll be a better dynasty/keeper draft pick this fall than a redraft one.