Raiders move up to snag TE Michael Mayer in Round 2

The Las Vegas Raiders selected Notre Dame tight end Michael Mayer in the second round of the 2023 NFL Draft, 35th overall.

The Raiders acquired the 35th selection from the Indianapolis Colts in exchange for the No. 38 and No. 141 picks.

Mayer was widely considered the top tight end in this year's class but was only the third to be taken off the board. The Buffalo Bills selected Dalton Kincaid in the first round Thursday, while the Detroit Lions chose Sam LaPorta 34th overall Friday.

Mayer, 21, put on a show at Notre Dame, catching 180 passes for 2,099 yards and 18 touchdowns across three seasons with the Fighting Irish.

The Raiders began looking for a new premier tight end this offseason after trading veteran Darren Waller to the New York Giants in March. Las Vegas also signed Austin Hooper in free agency.

Pre-draft profile

Mayer is a violent football player. Whether it's as a blocker, high-pointing a catch, or burying a defender with a stiff arm, the 21-year-old is a force to be reckoned with. Despite his lack of elite speed, Mayer routinely picked up extra yardage with his strength, and he regularly cast aside arm tacklers and defensive backs. Stronger, more athletic linebackers and safeties could give Mayer more issues in the NFL. However, his route running and understanding of coverages should keep him alive on most snaps and allow him to produce consistently at the next level. Mayer also showed good body control as a receiver, shielding defenders with his frame to help come down with contested catches when the route didn't generate significant separation. The former Notre Dame star should immediately start and contribute on every down for whichever team takes him on Day 1.