Raiders Training Camp: Michael Mayer will be a vital part of the 2026 offense

Posted by Admin August 7, 2026 NFL

HENDERSON, Nevada — The Las Vegas Raiders drafted Michael Mayer to be their star tight end in 2023. However, everything changed the next season when the Raiders drafted Brock Bowers, who became the starting tight end and reduced Mayer’s role in the offense.

It led Mayer to struggle off the field and lose some confidence. After a small bounce-back season in 2025, the former Notre Dame tight end is expected to have a bigger role with Klint Kubiak as the head coach.

His relationship with Brock Bowers has grown as well. The two will be seen on the field together on plenty of looks. Mayer thinks the tandem can grow into one of the best in the NFL.

“Two big threats that can both block really well; I think it is going to be an interesting season in terms of that just have to keep working hard, keep our heads down. Klint has a plan for us, and we will do our best to follow it.”

Mayer was featured during practice and had a long touchdown during the team session. He followed it up with a big catch over the middle using his size to hold off Taron Johnson.

Bowers and Mayer could be the next great tight end tandem if the Raiders find a way to execute on offense.

Other Training Camp Notes:

–Kirk Cousins and Maxx Crosby got into a scuffle after Crosby hit Cousins in the arm for the second time. Jonah Laulu and Caleb Rogers had an altercation as well.

-Mendoza looked sharp all practice and displayed his ability in the red zone by splitting the defense with a beautiful slant for a touchdown. He then had a great pass over the middle in team period and displayed anticipation throughout practice.

–Malcolm Koonce got his chance to shine with Kwity Paye and Keyron Crawford missing practice. Koonce bull-rushed Jack Bech into the ground and was constantly being disruptive.

-Malik Benson continues to shine, but it was a big day for Tre Tucker. Tucker caught a great back shoulder from Cousins and shook Eric Stokes in the red zone for a touchdown. Tucker looked prime to silence the naysayers.

-Two unsung players of the day were Gary Smith III and JJ Pegues. Pegues got run with the ones at nose tackle and was explosive all practice. He did leave early with an injury.

-Overall, the defense is dominating so far during training camp, which might have led to the longer practice today. Usually a two-hour practice, it went about two and a half hours.