Key Raiders Pass Catcher Won't Play For 'Personal' Reasons In Week 4

The Las Vegas Raiders will be short-handed in their Week 4 contest against the Cleveland Browns. The Raiders' second-round pick in 2023 will not play the game.

Per Ari Meirov of The 33rd Team, wide receiver Davante Adams (hamstring) and defensive end Maxx Crosby (ankle) were ruled out for injuries. Tight end Michael Mayer will not play due to a personal reason.

According to Tashan Reed of The Athletic, Antonio Pierce declined to give more details on Mayer's status.

"Pierce didn't elaborate when asked for more details about Mayer's "personal" designation," Reed posted on X. "Harrison Bryant will serve as the No. 2 TE behind Brock Bowers."

The curious reason for Mayer's absence came days after Pierce made another vague statement following the Raiders' 36-22 loss to the Carolina Panthers in the home opener for Las Vegas.

Per ESPN, Pierce hinted the Raiders would make personnel changes after the loss.

"As the game went on, I think there was definitely some individuals that made business decisions," Pierce said. "And we'll make business decisions going forward, as well."

It's unclear if Pierce's comments were directed at Mayer.

Mayer was not listed on Wednesday's injury report. The Notre Dame standout did not practice on Thursday for a reason that was not related to an injury.

Mayer has caught four passes for 21 yards through the first three weeks of the season.

The Raiders were considering making a quarterback change before Week 4. The team is sticking with Gardner Minshew against the Browns.

With Mayer out, Minshew will be without two key targets, including his top receiver, Adams.

Related: Browns Deshaun Watson Refuses To Do One Thing To Help Offense