Raiders 2024 camp position battle: Tight end

A year ago the Raiders were heading into camp with one of the top tight end prospects in the draft. They had traded up in the second round to select former Notre Dame tight end Michael Mayer at 35 overall.

Many people thought Mayer was the best tight end in that draft and thus were shocked when he fell into the second round. The Raiders included it would seem. So, they made sure they got him before anyone else could.

Then in last April’s draft they went and shocked the world at 13 overall. Thus setting up quite the camp position battle.

Michael Mayer vs Brock Bowers

Moments after Bowers was selected, people began imagining how he and Mayer would co-exist. Discussions of two tight end sets became commonplace. But there is still only one ball on the field. And there’s the likes of Davante Adams and Jakobi Meyers to think about as well.

Bowers dominated the SEC the past three years, most expect he will be an immediate star. But you might recall that Mayer also carried some high expectations as an immediate starter and difference-maker and he didn’t exactly cement himself as a surefire star at the tight end spot.

Even if Bowers is a star in the making, there’s no guarantee he will come flaming out the gates. Meanwhile Mayer is hoping to take the second-year leap.

My take:

It’s one thing to trade up in the second round for a guy. It’s entirely another to take a player at 13 overall with glaring needs at other critical positions. It’s also worth noting that Mayer was selected by the previous GM and head coach. So, there’s some pressure to prove Bowers was the right pick. Along with, you assume, is specific plans for him. So, while Mayer will see plenty of snaps, Bowers will be given every opportunity to shine right away.