Key Takeaways:
– A potential trade could reconnect the New York Jets with Las Vegas Raiders tight end Michael Mayer, filling a crucial void on the Jets’ roster.
– The Jets demonstrated strong interest in Mayer during the 2023 NFL Draft, ranking him second on their big board.
– The upcoming NFL season might see a significant shake-up in the Jets’ tight end room with the only player under contract beyond the current season being Jeremy Ruckert.
The New York Jets have an opportunity to fulfill a critical position in their squad by bringing back a once-favored player, Las Vegas Raiders tight end Michael Mayer. A proposal from Dallas Robinson of the Pro Football Network hinted at this trade possibility, which would greatly benefit the Jets’ line-up.
Trade Proposal to Boost the Jets’ Roster
Robinson proposed a trade wherein the Raiders would receive a second-rounder for the 2025 season and in return transfer Mayer and a sixth-rounder to the Indianapolis Colts. Although he did not specifically mention the Jets as Mayer’s potential new team, the New York organization should seriously consider this opportunity.
Robinson reasoned that Raiders’ first-year General Manager, Tom Telesco, who was not involved in Mayer’s drafting, could be open to giving up the talented tight end. Mayer, the No. 35 overall pick in the second round of 2023 NFL Draft, was liked “a lot,” in Rich Cimini(EPSN)’s words, by the Jets despite the Raiders trading up to get him.
Rekindling Interest from 2023 NFL Draft
During the 2023 NFL draft, the Jets had a strong inclination for Mayer. As per the Jets’ in-house documentary, “Flight 23,” Mayer claimed the No. 2 spot on their big board in the first round of picks. The only player the Jets ranked higher was Iowa State pass rusher, Will McDonald, who they eventually picked.
This unfulfilled interest in Mayer resurfaced with Nick Shook, from the NFL Media Group, and Matt Holder, from Bleacher Report, highlighting the glaring void in the Jets’ 2024 draft class: the absence of a tight end. Indeed, the current tight-end position stands as the team’s biggest weakness.
Mayer’s Performance and Prospect
During his rookie year, 22-year-old Mayer demonstrated his worth with 27 receptions, 304 receiving yards, and two touchdowns. However, the Raiders’ decision to bring Georgia tight end Brock Bowers aboard in the first round has been deemed a perplexing move by Paul Gutierrez of ESPN, considering the team’s previous investment in Mayer.
Such a decision could provide an opening for the Jets to reclaim Mayer, whose contract running till 2026 has staggered payments of $1.1 million for 2024, $1.5 million for 2025, and $2 million for 2026.
Mayer, who measured 6-foot-4 and 249 pounds at the NFL Combine, received praise from NFL draft analyst Lance Zierlein for his blocking skills and potential to extend the offensive line. He described Mayer as an extremely safe choice who will be a solid professional, particularly as a run blocker and pass catcher.
A Possible Change in the Jets’ Tight-End Line-Up
Currently, the Jets’ tight end room includes Jeremy Ruckert, under team control until 2025, and shortly contract-ending players Tyler Conklin, Kenny Yeboah, and Zack Kuntz. The proposed acquisition of Mayer could strengthen this vital area for the Jets, injecting new blood and talent into this integral part of their roster and driving their performance to new heights on the football field.