Tuesday, February 7, 2023

2023 NFL Draft Prospect TE Michael Mayer

Michael Mayer:

Scouting Reports:










Articles:

2023 NFL Draft: Who is the CAN'T-MISS prospect? (Chad Reuter - PICK: Michael Mayer, TE, Notre Dame.  Mayer might not be the fastest pass catcher in this draft class, but he's a reliable target who will eat up zones and play with the functional strength, body control and catch radius to beat man coverage down the seam and in the red zone. His blocking in the run game will also be valued for years to come, making him a likely perennial Pro Bowler in the Mark Andrews and Jason Witten mold.) (4-27-23):  https://www.nfl.com/news/2023-nfl-draft-who-is-the-can-t-miss-prospect

Lions' 2023 Draft Wants (FIRST ROUND - TE Michael Mayer, Notre Dame:  Mayer is arguably the best pass-catching tight end in the 2023 draft class. He caught 180 passes for 2,099 yards and 18 touchdowns in three seasons at Notre Dame.  If Detroit targets a tight end in the first round, it couldn't go wrong with the Fighting Irish product.) (4-27-23):  https://www.si.com/nfl/lions/news/lions-2023-draft-wants

2023 NFL Draft: Best research stats from notable prospects (The year of the tight end - With five tight ends in Daniel Jeremiah's top 50 prospects, the 2023 draft class is a great pool for any team looking for a tight end. His highest-ranked player at the position, Utah's Dalton Kincaid, is the only FBS tight end since at least 2000 to have four career seasons with at least eight receiving touchdowns. Notre Dame's Michael Mayer was the only tight end with 800-plus receiving yards in each of the last two seasons, while his 33 career contested catches paced all players at the position from 2020-2022. Oregon State's Luke Musgrave may have played only two games last season, but he led FBS tight ends with 84.5 receiving yards per game. Should Georgia's Darnell Washington be picked in the Round 1, he would have the fewest career receptions (45) by any tight end selected in the opening round since at least 2000.) (4-26-23):  https://www.nfl.com/news/2023-nfl-draft-best-research-stats-from-notable-prospects

2023 NFL Draft Week Rumors Tuesday (Early in the 2023 NFL Draft process, sources with Tampa Bay really liked Notre Dame tight end Michael Mayer and Florida quarterback Anthony Richardson. Bucs evaluators felt that Mayer was just a good football player and felt the concerns of other scouts about his skill set as something lacking was overthinking. They also placed a good amount a lot of Richardson's shortcomings on the Florida coaching staff, saying that the new Gators staff did not know how to use Richardson well and did not do a good job of developing his incredible talent. The Bucs probably won't select Mayer in the 2023 NFL Draft because of other needs, and Richardson most likely won't make it to them at pick No. 19. Richardson might intrigue Tampa Bay, but the team may not be willing to give up a package of picks to move up for him.) (4-25-23):  https://walterfootball.com/nflhotpress/article/2023-NFL-Draft-Week-Rumors-Tuesday

TWENTYMAN: 10 prospects who make sense for Lions in first round (8. TE Michael Mayer, Notre Dame:  A three-year starter for the Irish, Mayer was the primary target in Notre Dame's offense the last two seasons. He can play in-line and detached, and is expected to be an impact starter Day 1 in the NFL. He racked up 180 receptions for 2,099 yards and 18 touchdowns the last three seasons. Utah's Dalton Kincaid and Georgia's Darnell Washington would also be a fit in the middle to late first round.) (4-25-23):  https://www.detroitlions.com/news/10-prospects-nfl-draft-lions-first-round-anderson-carter-wilson

NFL draft preview: Depth at WR, TE could benefit Lions after Jameson Williams suspension (Mayer is a combo tight end who caught 67 passes for 809 yards and nine touchdowns last season.) (4-24-23):  https://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2023/04/24/nfl-draft-preview-depth-wr-te-detroit-lions-jameson-williams-suspension/70146290007/

The Grit Index: Identifying which NFL Draft prospects are ‘Dan Campbell guys’ (Michael Mayer is arguably the top tight end prospect in a deep class that is competitive at the top. A dominating blocker and pro-style receiver, Mayer has the potential to be what the previous regime believed T.J. Hockenson would become.  Here is an excerpt from Brugler:  “voted a 2022 team captain … has a low-key personality but is hyper-competitive and the on-field killer instinct comes natural to him.”) (4-23-23):  https://www.prideofdetroit.com/2023/4/24/23695330/detroit-lions-2023-nfl-draft-football-character-fits-prospects-dan-campbell-grit-index

The 8 safest NFL Draft picks in 2023, from Will Anderson Jr. to Jaxon Smith-Njigba (Michael Mayer, TE, Notre Dame (Ranked No. 7 overall on SN's big board):  The 2023 features depth at tight end with other potential first-round picks such as Utah's Dalton Kincaid and Georgia's Darnell Washington. Mayer is the classic in-line tight end prospect, and you just have to trust the production. Mayer had 67 catches on 101 targets last season, and he averaged 69 catches and 820 yards the last two years. Mayer also had the third-best run-block percentage among tight ends last season, according to Pro Football Focus. He's a throw-back classic that will have a productive NFL career.) (4-23-23):  https://www.sportingnews.com/us/nfl/news/draft-picks-2023-safest-picks-will-anderson-jaxon-smith-njigba/uahrghh47u23ospj1rynkk0f

Michael Mayer favored over Dalton Kincaid to be first tight end drafted (4-21-23):  https://profootballtalk.nbcsports.com/2023/04/21/michael-mayer-favored-over-dalton-kincaid-to-be-first-tight-end-drafted/

NFL Draft Rumors: Will Levis Stumbling, Anthony Richardson a Texan, and Bijan Robinson Goes 27th in Mock Draft (3 Tight Ends Go in Round 1 - Dalton Kincaid became a Green Bay Packer with pick No. 15. The Cowboys took Michael Mayer at 26, and the Bengals drafted Luke Musgrave at 28.  “Dalton Kincaid is clearly the best player available at his position in what could be the deepest tight end class we’ve seen in more than a decade,” Caplan wrote in his mock draft.  Kincaid is a smooth operator who already looks like a professional pass catcher. The history of drafting first-round tight ends is particularly ugly, but the Packers have a massive need there.  Mayer might be a bit boring, and both Peyton Hendershot and Jake Ferguson flashed as rookies. Still, neither have the pedigree of Mayer, who walked into a program with NFL tight ends on the roster and immediately outproduced them at just 19.  A league source told Caplan that the Bengals tried to re-sign TE Hayden Hurst, who eventually ended up a Panther. The position is a need for the Bengals, and Duke Tobin and Co. haven’t been shy about using valuable capital at the position in the past.) (4-20-23):  https://www.profootballnetwork.com/nfl-draft-rumors-will-levis-stumbling-anthony-richardson-a-texan-bijan-robinson-goes-27/

The 2023 NFL Draft Class' Best at Everything: The top performers in 100 PFF premium stats (Best red-zone tight end: Michael Mayer, Notre Dame - Mayer’s 92.5 grade in the red zone was more than three points higher than the next-closest tight end. He also led the position in the red zone with 15 catches for 153 yards.  Best deep tight end: Michael Mayer, Notre Dame - On throws of at least 20 yards, Mayer led FBS tight ends with eight catches for 210 yards and four touchdowns.) (4-20-23):  https://www.pff.com/news/draft-2023-class-best-at-everything-100-premium-stats

Packers 2023 NFL Draft: Should Green Bay Target a WR or TE in Round 1? (Michael Mayer, TE | Notre Dame:  While Michael Mayer may not be the most athletic tight end in this class, he’s potentially the most complete. An impact player as both a receiver and a blocker, Mayer is an easy NFL projection. He’s consistent and reliable, and would be a great fit if he were to become the next Packers tight end.) (4-19-23):  https://www.profootballnetwork.com/packers-draft-wr-te-2023/

Top 10 Tight Ends in the 2023 NFL Draft: Dalton Kincaid, Michael Mayer Vie for TE1 (2. Michael Mayer, Notre Dame:  There’s a clear top two at the pinnacle of the 2023 NFL Draft TE class, consisting of Michael Mayer and Dalton Kincaid. Either prospect is a viable TE1, but on PFN’s board, Kincaid slightly edges out Mayer for the top spot. That’s no slight to Mayer, of course. He’s still a top-25 prospect in the class.  Mayer — who caught 138 passes for 1,639 yards and 16 touchdowns through 2021 and 2022 — profiles as an extremely well-rounded TE at the next level. He’s a nuanced route runner with foot speed and physicality, he can convert at the catch point with strong hands, and he’s also a stellar blocker.) (4-19-23):  https://www.profootballnetwork.com/top-10-te-in-the-2023-nfl-draft-cameron-latu-jaheim-bell-lead-the-chase-behind-michael-mayer/

10 thoughts on the 2023 NFL draft with 10 days to go (The depth of the TE class keeps any from going very early - It’s a great year to need a tight end in the draft. While there aren’t any surefire stars, the overall quality and quantity of the class means that there will be enough to go around for the teams looking to add a higher-end option at TE. As a result, guys like Michael Mayer from Notre Dame, Utah’s Dalton Kincaid and giant Darnell Washington from Georgia wind up being drafted a little later than most current projections slot them.) (4-18-23):  https://draftwire.usatoday.com/lists/2023-nfl-draft-predictions-picks/

NFL Draft prospects 2023: The top 10 tight ends (1. Michael Mayer, Notre Dame (6-5, 249 pounds):  Mayer stood out as a go-to playmaker for the Fighting Irish with his combination of athleticism, hands and route-running. He both could stretch the field and finish well in the red zone. He has the frame with which to get physical, both in his routes and in his blocking. He can get strong all-around in that capacity, too.  Mock draft projection: Packers in Round 1) (4-19-23):  https://www.sportingnews.com/us/nfl/news/nfl-draft-2023-prospects-tight-ends-rankings/z2eyuvnmzdek5pzjpti6k8tn

2023 NFL Draft: The top 8 tight ends (3. Michael Mayer, Notre Dame (Height: 6′ 4½” (52nd percentile), Weight: 249 (33rd), 40-Yard Dash: 4.70 (66th), 10-Yard Split: 1.66 (32nd), Vertical Jump: 32½” (42nd), Broad Jump: 118″ (68th), Wingspan: 76¼” (9th), Arm Length: 31⅝” (7th), Hand Size: 9½” 924th)) - Bio: Mayer grew up dreaming of playing basketball at Kentucky, but when he enrolled at Covington High in Covington, Kentucky, he started playing football, and it really stuck. He was a U.S. Army All-American and Kentucky’s 2019 Mr. Football, helping Covington to a 44-1 record with two state titles in his three varsity seasons. The five-star recruit chose Notre Dame over Penn State and Kentucky among a host of schools. Over three seasons with the Fighting Irish, Mayer caught 180 passes on 255 targets for 2,099 yards and 18 touchdowns. In 2022, he had 463 snaps aligned to the formation, 202 in the slot, 63 out wide, 19 in the backfield, and one on the offensive line.  Stat to Know: Mayer led all tight ends in the 2023 class with eight receptions of 20 or more air yards, gaining 420 yards and scoring four touchdowns on those plays.  Strengths: Mayer isn’t an explosive player with a lot of juice downfield — and we’ll get more into that in a minute — but he does have the ability to stack defenders with route awareness, and there are times when he looks like a proto-Gronk when he gets by opponents and just posts them up in some remarkable ways.N Mayer is also a highly effective receiver on short passes because he can explode (in a relative sense) after the catch. He’s learned through tons of positive experience to not fear contact, because he can just beat people up in open space.  As a run- and pass-blocker, Mayer also has no issue getting grimy. He could use a bit of help latching onto his targets in open space, but he’s a willing and effective protector.  Weaknesses: If your tight end preference leans toward the explosive slot guy who can riddle defenders with short-area movement and speed, Mayer isn’t going to be your optimal choice. He needs to be schemed open for those big plays, because he’s not going to win in those situations with his own pure athleticism, and he’s at his best aligned to the formation.  Mayer’s speed deficits show up in a couple of ways — he’ll look downfield too quickly at times on shorter passes because he’s looking to get going, and if the timing of the throw is off at all, Mayer will let defenders into his kitchen for potential incompletions.  Conclusion: It’s easy to overthink players like Mayer to their own detriment. When a prospect does most everything pretty well to very well, few things badly, and few things spectacularly, we tend to label him a “safe pick” and move to the next guy, hoping for something more explosive. Mayer will not throw highlights all over his NFL team’s game tape, but that team will get a few splash plays, a manageably low rate of negative issues, and proven repeatable consistency game after game. That may sound boring to some, but there are times when boring is preferable to zany spikes in production. He is a true tight end in the old-school sense, and if that is what you want (or are willing to settle for) at the position, Mayer will be plug-and-play from Day 1. There’s nothing wrong with that.  NFL Comparison: Jason Witten. I could also go with Zach Ertz, though Ertz has been a bit more explosive throughout his career. Instead, let’s look at Witten, selected by the Cowboys in the third round of the 2003 draft out of Tennessee. Witten was nobody’s idea of a speed demon, and he wouldn’t necessarily fit the modern prototype of the detached big receiver masquerading positionally as a tight end, but he made 11 Pro Bowls and had two All-Pro nods because he was consistent, tough, and fearless on the field. He maximized his abilities, and I think Mayer will do the same in his own way with similar athletic limitations.) (4-17-23):  https://touchdownwire.usatoday.com/lists/2023-nfl-draft-tight-ends-dalton-kincaid-michael-mayer-luke-musgrave/

Ranking 10 Tight Ends Lions Could Draft (3. Michael Mayer, Notre Dame:  Mayer is a solid athlete. He projects as a solid pass-catcher, but struggles at times as a blocker. His ability to make plays after the catch will make him appealing. He'll have an impact in the passing game. With back-to-back seasons of over 800 receiving yards, he projects as an impactful player in the passing game. ) (4-13-23):  https://www.si.com/nfl/lions/news/ranking-tight-ends-lions-could-draft

Ranking every position in the 2023 NFL Draft by how “generational” the top prospect is (4. Tight End: Michael Mayer, Notre Dame Fighting Irish:  There isn’t a consensus top tight end in the 2023 NFL Draft. Utah’s Dalton Kincaid is the No. 1 prospect at the position on PFF’s big board and was second behind Kyle Pitts on our all-prospect team.  Regardless of who you have first, there’s no denying that the 2023 class is better than most in recent memory. Mayer’s 92.5 grade led all tight ends in the country this past season..) (4-14-23):  https://www.pff.com/news/draft-ranking-every-position-in-the-2023-nfl-draft-by-how-generational-the-top-prospect-is

2023 NFL Draft preview: 5 tight ends that could interest the Lions (1. Michael Mayer, Notre Dame: 6-4 1/2, 249. 4.70 40.  Productive three-year player, played 36 career games with 28 starts, 180 receptions, 2,099 yards and 18 TDs. Averaged more than 10 yards per catch in all three seasons.  Bottom line: Mayer had three games in 2022 with more than 100 receiving yards and closed out his season with 98 yards in a loss to Southern Cal.) (4-11-23):  https://www.detroitlions.com/news/2023-nfl-draft-preview-5-tight-ends-lions-mayer-kincaid-washington

2023 NFL Draft Superlatives (Best Red Zone Threats: Michael Mayer (Notre Dame), Darnell Washington (Georgia) & Zack Kuntz (Old Dominion) - Mayer: He won’t blow anyone away with his athletic profile, but he’s going to play for a decade-plus and become a nightmare for opposing teams that like to play zone. An extremely cerebral athlete with smooth hands and the ability to consistently out-leverage smaller defenders, he’ll be a featured weapon inside the 20s from Week 1 moving forward. ) (4-11-23):  https://thedraftnetwork.com/2023-nfl-draft-superlatives/

2023 NFL Draft: Buyer Beware on Drafting Tight Ends Michael Mayer, Dalton Kincaid in Round 1 (4-6-23):  https://www.profootballnetwork.com/2023-nfl-draft-buyer-beware-on-drafting-tight-ends-michael-mayer-dalton-kincaid-in-round-1/

2023 NFL Draft: Trevor Sikkema's top 5 players at each offensive position (3.  Michael Mayer:  Mayer is about as steady and reliable as tight ends come; he can be a day-one starter due to his high floor as a blocker and receiver.) (4-5-23):  https://www.pff.com/news/draft-top-five-players-offense-2023-nfl-draft-sikkema

5 Players Lions Should Not Select in 2023 NFL Draft (Michael Mayer, TE, Notre Dame:  Mayer is one of the draft’s top talents from a receiving perspective. He’s a good athlete who can make plays in the passing game and be a versatile asset for whichever offense he lands with.  Yet, the Lions proved in 2022 that they can be a successful offense without a dynamic talent at his position. After trading away T.J. Hockenson, who is an established top performer at tight end, the Lions maintained a high-level performance throughout the remainder of the season, and finished on an offensive tear.  Mayer would be better suited in an offense where he’d be a top target, while the Lions would benefit from adding a tight end who can contribute more as an in-line blocker. Campbell has said he wants to build his team with a run-first identity, so adding a tight end with better blocking skills would be more in step with what he’s trying to create.) (4-4-23):  https://www.si.com/nfl/lions/news/players-lions-should-avoid-2023-draft


What Are Michael Mayer’s 4 Best NFL Team Fits? (Detroit Lions - They don’t need Mayer to be what T.J. Hockenson was. With Amon-Ra St. Brown and Jameson Williams primed to become one of the league’s elite young duos on the outside, and D’Andre Swift backed up by David Montgomery in the ground game, Mayer’s ability to thrive over the intermediate areas of the field would fit seamlessly within an offense that remains extremely underrated.) (3-28-23):  https://thedraftnetwork.com/michael-mayer-nfl-draft-packers-saints-lions-bucs/

Who Will Be 1st TE Taken In 2023 NFL Draft? (THE FAVORITE & MY PICK: MICHAEL MAYER - Mayer entered the 2022 college football campaign as the consensus top-ranked tight end. Mayer was outstanding, having met expectations by recording 67 receptions for 809 receiving yards and a single-season career-high nine touchdowns. So why are some now questioning Mayer’s ceiling as a prospect?  Mayer’s athletic upside has been up for debate. At the NFL Scouting Combine, Mayer posted a below-average 32.5-inch vertical and ran a 4.70 flat in the 40-yard dash. Can Mayer be a difference-maker as a pass-catcher despite possessing what some are calling a modest athletic profile?  I believe he can. People are overcomplicating the Mayer discussion. Mayer is a pro-ready dual-threat tight end prospect that blends size, ball skills, and physicality as a receiver with in-line blocking abilities. Mayer is the total package and should be drafted within the first 15 selections.) (3-28-23):  https://thedraftnetwork.com/nfl-draft-2023-first-te-drafted/

Pro days: Takeaways from QB Will Levis' workout (2. Top TE in spotlight. Michael Mayer performed the bench press and took part in on-field workouts at Notre Dame's pro day on Friday, per NFL Network’s Sherree Burruss. He opted to skip the other athletic testing as one of the leading candidates to be the first tight end off the board in the 2023 NFL Draft. Mayer had skipped the bench press, 3-cone drill and the 20-yard shuttle at the combine. He put up 21 bench reps on Friday, which would have tied for fourth most among tight ends at the combine. His on-field workout included a pass-catching session from new Notre Dame quarterback Sam Hartman, who transferred from Wake Forest, as well as the blocking portion.  "I just want to show that I am a complete tight end," Mayer told Burruss.  Mayer is listed as Jeremiah's No. 21 overall prospect and No. 2 tight end, behind Utah's Dalton Kincaid and just ahead of Georgia's Darnell Washington. In Jeremiah's most recent mock draft, he projects Mayer to be the second tight end taken, at No. 29 to the Saints.) (3-24-23):  https://www.nfl.com/news/2023-nfl-draft-what-we-learned-from-boston-college-kentucky-notre-dame-pro-days

Best-case player comps for some of the top prospects in the 2023 NFL draft (TE - Michael Mayer, Notre Dame - Michael Mayer is a supremely smart route runner, and plays with impressive functional strength and power as a blocker. He has an ideal NFL frame and his ability to make contested catches and break tackles reminds me very much of Ravens star tight end Mark Andrews.  Mark Andrews, Baltimore Ravens) (3-22-23):  https://draftwire.usatoday.com/lists/2023-nfl-draft-player-comparison/


2023 NFL Draft Stock - Post-Combine II (Stock Down - Michael Mayer, TE, Notre Dame:  During the leadup to the 2023 NFL Draft, Utah's Dalton Kincaid has jumped Mayer as the consensus top tight end prospect, although some NFL sources prefer Iowa's Sam LaPorta. Teams were impressed with LaPorta at the combine, while Mayer did not help himself there. Numerous evaluators say they feel Mayer's skill set is not special and they don't see a player with a dominant trait. In my 2023 NFL Mock Draft, I still have Mayer going in the first round. The lack of buzz, however, makes me think there is the possibility that Mayer will slip to Round 2 of the 2023 NFL Draft.) (3/21 update):  https://walterfootball.com/draft2023stock_27.php

NFL Draft 2023: Fowler’s Top 10 TE Big Board (3. Michael Mayer, Notre Dame:  The athlete with arguably the highest floor in the 2023 NFL Draft class, Mayer will play for a decade-plus on Sundays. Does he have an elite trait, no, but there’s something to be said about guys that are just flat-out good football players, and Mayer will be able to succeed wherever he lands. He’ll make his money most likely as a Y attached in-line.) (3-20-23):  https://thedraftnetwork.com/nfl-draft-2023-te-big-board-fowler/

TWENTYMAN: 6 pro days to watch this week (Notre Dame, Fri., March 24 - Who to watch: This is a really deep class of tight ends, and Michael Mayer is trying to be the first one off the board. His Combine NextGen Stats athleticism grade ranked 14th among the tight ends. He'll probably look to improve on some of his testing numbers, particularly the 4.7-second 40 he ran at Combine.) (3-19-23):  https://www.detroitlions.com/news/twentyman-6-pro-days-to-watch-this-week-young-stroud-porter

2023 NFL Draft: Tight end prospect superlatives (Best Inline Blocker: Michael Mayer, Notre Dame - While the behemoth that is Georgia’s Darnell Washington could very well be the best in time, Mayer is the best as it stands now. His 82.1 run-blocking grade in 2022 was the highest of any tight end in the draft class. He can match strength inline with defensive ends and demolish defensive backs on the move. Any team looking for a value-add in the run game will have Mayer as TE1.) (3-17-23):  https://www.pff.com/news/draft-tight-end-prospect-superlatives-nfl-2023

2023 NFL Draft: Every top-10 tight end's highest-graded season (MICHAEL MAYER, NOTRE DAME (Big board rank: 28/TE2, Best PFF grade: 92.5, 2022, 2022 Receiving grade:  91.6, 2022 Run-blocking grade: 82.1)) (3-8-23):  https://www.pff.com/news/draft-2023-nfl-draft-every-top-10-tight-ends-highest-graded-season

Combine performances that shouldn't hurt draft stock (Michael Mayer, TE, Notre Dame:  The theme to this list is expectation versus reality. Mayer is a big body who uses that body incredibly well, but he has never been confused for an explosive athlete. He ran the 40-yard dash in 4.7 seconds with modest jumps. Teams did not expect more from him. His tape tells the tale of a reliable player with a well-rounded skillset. There are no concerns about how he will transition to the next level.) (3-7-23):  https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/nfl-combine-2023-why-performances-of-will-anderson-jr-brian-branch-and-4-others-shouldnt-hurt-draft-stock/

2023 NFL Draft TE rankings: Dalton Kincaid leads "unique" top 10 (2. Michael Mayer, Notre Dame, 6-5, 249, Junior - Overview: Like most Notre Dame players, Mayer signed as a premium recruit, earning four-star designation and being lured to South Bend despite playing his prep ball in Kentucky. His immediate success with the Irish justified leaving SEC country as Mayer earned Freshman All-American honors in 2019, leading the team with 42 receptions (for 450 yards and two scores.   Consistency personified, Mayer would go on to lead Notre Dame in receptions each of the next two years as well, setting all-time Notre Dame records for tight ends with 180 receptions for 2,099 yards and 18 scores in just three years. With little else left to prove, Mayer gave up his remaining eligibility and entered the 2023 NFL draft, hauling in at least one reception in all 36 games of his college career.  Strengths: He is an imposing and well-built athlete with good overall musculature. Mayer has a plan as a route-runner, slipping past traffic at the point of attack and easing into his route, showing the core strength and sense of urgency to get into his route efficiently. He's more nuanced than explosive but does a nice job of creating space and providing his quarterback with a big target. Mayer is a savvy route-runner. He has soft mitts to pull in passes outside his numbers and shows good concentration and grip strength to win contested throws. Combine measurements proved that Mayer has smaller-than-ideal hands, but his fingers are strong enough to haul in throws. He's among the better blockers in this class. Mayer initiates the action with defenders, providing a powerful initial pop and utilizing the same grip to latch and sustain blocks. He keeps his feet chugging to move defenders, rather than simply turn and seal them off.Concerns: Mayer isn't the elite athlete that his production suggests, as his relatively pedestrian numbers in the 40-yard dash (4.70), vertical jump (32.5") and broad jump (9'10") reflect. He's a bit sluggish out of his stance and wins more with body positioning than truly creating space. He has slightly below-average arm length (31 5/8") and hand size (9 ½") for a man of his height. Mayer was charged by Pro Football Focus with 12 drops (on 266 targets) over his career.  Bottom Line: More polished than his golden helmet, Mayer is as safe as a prospect gets. That isn't to suggest that he's a particularly flashy athlete, with teams looking for a playmaker in the slot or down the seam likely to target one of the other, swifter athletes in this class. However, Mayer is a full-service tight end capable of boosting a team's running and passing game immediately, and those often require a first-round investment.  Grade: Top 50) (3-6-23):  https://www.foxsports.com/stories/nfl/2023-nfl-draft-te-rankings-dalton-kincaid-leads-unique-cop-of-top-10-prospects

NFL Combine Winners and Losers (Losers - Michael Mayer, TE, Notre Dame:  Much was expected of Mayer's workout and it didn't live up to the hype. The Notre Dame tight end was solid, nothing more. He measured in just above 6-foot-4 and 249 pounds, but ran a 4.7 40. His 32.5-inch vertical was below what was expected, as was his 9-foot-10 broad jump. Mayer's film is great, so that may carry him. But his combine workout wasn't great.) (3-6-23):  https://www.thebiglead.com/posts/nfl-combine-winners-losers-list-draft-01gtj41a1vth

NFL Combine takeaways by position: Anthony Richardson's speed, Bryce Young's size & more we learned about 2023 draft (Tight ends: Notre Dame's Michael Mayer opens the door for a slide - Mayer didn't show the plus athleticism needed to hold all his rivals in a talented tight end class at bay. He still will be a steal of a top-20 pick, but the top-10 status may be hard to reach from a "luxury" position. Mayer was strong as expected in the actual football drills, but there's no doubt players such as Iowa State's Luke Musgrave, Georgia's Darnell Washington and Old Dominion's Zach Kuntz got the needed to buzz to make up some ground.  Mayer's biggest competition to be the first tight end drafted, Utah's Dalton Kincaid, didn't work out because of a back ailment. Should Kincaid put on a show during his pro day March 23, watch out. There's a good chance both go in some order after pick No. 13.) (3-6-23):  https://www.sportingnews.com/us/nfl/news/nfl-combine-2023-takeaways-anthony-richardson-bryce-young/ptpjkejssvw6s1dt6ghwfag0

2023 NFL Scouting Combine: Stock up, stock down for every position (Stock Down: Michael Mayer, Notre Dame Fighting Irish:  Nearly every tight end tested well, including Mayer. So like the quarterback position, the “stock down” label shouldn’t be taken too literally.  However, Mayer is battling a few players for the TE1 title in the 2023 NFL Draft. With two of those challengers, Luke Musgrave and Darnell Washington, testing out of this world, Mayer could fall behind for some teams as a good, not great athlete.) (3-6-23):  https://www.pff.com/news/draft-2023-nfl-scouting-combine-stock-up-stock-down-every-position-nfl-draft

NFL Combine results: 8 standouts from the tight end group (Michael Mayer, Notre Dame (6-foot-4 1/2, 249, 4.70) is a complete tight end but he looked slow at times compared to the other “move” tight ends. He has massive hands that engulf footballs, is powerful in everything he does, and was solid as a blocker and pass catcher.) (3-4-23):  https://www.prideofdetroit.com/2023/3/5/23624921/2023-nfl-combine-results-8-standouts-tight-end-prospects-winners-losers

Stock up/down from NFL Scouting Combine Day 3 (Losers - TE Michael Mayer:  Mayer was never considered one of the elite athletes in this draft class, so his pedestrian testing results (4.70-second 40, 32 1/2-inch vertical, 9-foot-10 broad jump) were not a surprise. He weighed 249 pounds, which is average for the position and makes his testing numbers look even less impressive in comparison with his peers. Mayer did not show quick-twitch movement in drills, either, though he caught everything thrown his way, stayed low moving the blocking sled and showed quick feet getting around cones when he ran routes. He is going to be an excellent NFL player using those hands and strong route-running skills, but the combine is an event focused on athleticism, and his performance did not improve his draft stock.) (3-4-23):  https://www.nfl.com/news/2023-nfl-scouting-combine-stock-up-stock-down-day-3-anthony-richardson-takes-fli

NFL Combine: WR/TE winners and losers (Tight ends Losers - Michael Mayer, TE, Notre Dame: There were hardly any losers from the tight end group, but Mayer may have been one just from the perspective of other tight ends rising. Mayer caught the ball well but did not test off-the-charts, which was to be expected. He is going to be a successful, pro but his stock may have been impacted by others, like Darnell Washington, rising.) (3-4-23):  https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/nfl-combine-2023-jaxon-smith-njigba-darnell-washington-among-winners-and-losers-in-wr-te-groups/

Takeaways from NFL combine measurements for WR, TE (The top tight ends, meanwhile, are enormous. Michael Mayer, Luke Musgrave, Dalton Kincaid, and Darnell Washington all checked in at least 6-3 1/2 and 246 pounds. They all had large hands and long arms. They're fitting the new prototype for the position.) (3-4-23):  https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/news/2023-nfl-combine-wr-te-measurements-40-yard-dash-top-wrs-small-top-tes-massive-more-takeaways/

What We Learned: Friday's big combine takeaways (9. "Controlled madness" fueling potential first-rounder. Michael Mayer's first passion was basketball. Then, he discovered weight lifting.  "I got a bench press in my basement, started lifting, and I lost my jump shot," Mayer said during his combine press conference. "I couldn't shoot worth anything." With strength gains came a change in sport, setting him on a course for gridiron stardom as a tight end. Mayer arrived in Indy as one of the top tight ends in his class, but he isn't resting on his laurels, identifying blocking as one area in which he needs to improve. "I gotta work on my blocking technique, there's no doubt about that," Mayer said. "I feel like this past year, it's something I definitely took a jump on. I started working on it way more than I had my freshman and sophomore years at the University of Notre Dame. It's just going to keep getting better. My technique's gonna keep getting better. I'm gonna keep learning things from veterans, I'm gonna keep learning things from coaches who have been around the game 20, 30, 40 years. At this point, it's only up for my blocking."  Mayer couldn't have hidden his passion for football if he'd tried while on the podium. He certainly didn't hide it on the field at Notre Dame, either, possessing the demeanor that could help make him an every-down tight end in the NFL.  "I just grew up like this," Mayer explained. "… My intensity and a little bit, you could say, controlled anger, controlled madness about the game of football. I don't try to change for anybody. I attack the game of football like I do anything else in life."  Mayer's intensity paid off for him in college, where he set Notre Dame's TE record for receptions and receiving yards in 2021, and finished his career in South Bend as the school's all-time leader in catches, yards and touchdowns at the position. He aims to make a similar impact for his next team, saying his role doesn't matter.  "I think I can do anything any team asks me to do," Mayer said. "I can be in the backfield and I can block, I can be a fullback and block, I can be at the end, I can be out by the numbers, I can be in the slot and run routes. I can do it all, man, and that's really how I feel. I think there's a lot of teams here that believe the same thing." -- Nick Shook) (3-3-23):  https://www.nfl.com/news/2023-nfl-scouting-combine-what-we-learned-during-friday-s-activities-in-indianap

NFL Draft 2023: Former NFL GM makes pro comparisons for Jaxon Smith-Njigba, other top pass-catchers (Notre Dame TE Michael Mayer - Michael Mayer was college football's premier tight end during his three-season career at Notre Dame, leading all tight ends in catches (180) and receiving yards (2,099) from 2020-22. His all-around skill set as a blocker and a pass-catcher make him the 2023 NFL Draft's most complete tight end.).  Ryan Wilson: Mark Andrews (Ravens) - "Great season, one of my favorite players in terms of just being a football guy, he fits that mold," Wilson said. "He's just so good. This was a hard comp for me because it's hard to find a guy who does all the things he does. He's more of a throwback I think, so I went with [Baltimore Ravens tight end] Mark Andrews, who wasn't a Day 1 guy but who is incredibly important to what they do in Baltimore. He can block, but he's more important in the middle of the field. I think Mayer gives you that sort of production, especially if he lands in a place like the Chargers. Or he goes to the Chiefs. I think fit matters with a lot of these guys, but Michael Mayer, my tight end one, that could change in terms of how teams feel about him, but I love him."  Rick Spielman: Jason Witten (retired) - "I went back to Jason Witten because I don't think Mark Andrews was a great blocker when he came out of Oklahoma," Spielman said. "He's more used in the passing game. They removed him from the formation and put him in the slot a lot to create mismatches that way. I think Mayer is a little bit more like a Jason Witten where he can play on the line as a Y-tight end, but also be effective in the passing game. I just don't think he's a vertical threat.") (3-3-23):  https://www.cbssports.com/college-basketball/news/bracketology-michigan-wisconsin-rutgers-slip-after-losses-as-big-ten-remains-agent-of-chaos/

Michael Mayer gives himself Travis Kelce comparison at NFL Combine (3-3-23):  https://www.sportingnews.com/us/nfl/news/michael-mayer-travis-kelce-comparison-nfl-combine/df0y1ty37vpby6mrfdy0vgtq


2023 NFL Draft Big Board: Top 25 Prospects Heading Into NFL Combine Include Jalen Carter, Brian Branch, and Bijan Robinson (12. Michael Mayer, TE, Notre Dame: Sitting atop a spectacular class of NFL prospects at the tight end position, Notre Dame’s Michael Mayer boasts an all-around skill set that will make him an alluring talent for any TE-needy team. A dangerous pass-catching threat due to his deceptive athleticism and ball skills, he’s also a technically refined blocker.) (3-1-23):  https://www.profootballnetwork.com/nfl-draft-big-board-top-25-2023/

2023 NFL Draft: 5 prospects whose stock shouldn't fall if they don't test well at NFL scouting combine (TE Michael Mayer, Notre Dame:  Mayer’s straight-line speed has been in question ever since his freshman year. When the dust settles on his 40-yard dash in Indy, chances are it’ll be nothing special. Flip on the tape, though, and you’ll see a player who was still an unquestioned No. 1 option without high-end speed. That’s because Mayer has everything else you could want at the position, racking up over 800 yards each of the past two seasons because of it. His wiggle is special for a 265-pounder and his hands aren’t too far behind (6.3% career drop rate and 60% on contested catches in career).  Oh, and he’s one of the strongest inline-blocking prospects we’ve seen in the PFF era. While he could get more consistent with his hand placement in the run game and stay connected longer, Mayer has the skill to be special in that regard.) (3-1-23):  https://www.pff.com/news/draft-5-prospects-whose-stock-shouldnt-fall-if-they-dont-test-well-at-nfl-scouting-combine-2023

2023 NFL combine preview: 15 future fantasy football stars to watch (Michael Mayer, Notre Dame:  Widely considered the most polished TE in this year's draft, Mayer possesses a rare blend of top-notch receiving and blocking skills. He can truck after the catch, while also dominating as a run-blocker. The latter part of his game doesn't flash for fantasy fans, but it does keep him on the field and earn him valuable pass-catching opportunities. While a mid-4.6 time in the 40-yard-dash would buoy his stock, what he does in the route-running drills will be particularly revealing.) (2-27-23):  https://www.espn.com/fantasy/football/story/_/id/35747281/2023-nfl-combine-fantasy-football-players-watch

NFL Draft: Top 5 prospects at each offensive position (2. TE Michael Mayer:  Mayer is super safe because he does everything well at the tight end spot just doesn't have major upside because it doesn't appear he possesses loads of athleticism.) (2-27-23):  https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/2023-nfl-draft-breaking-down-the-top-5-prospects-at-each-offensive-position-heading-into-the-combine/

2023 NFL Draft Wilson Top 25 Big Board: Bryce Young is No. 1; a top-four QB misses the cut (11. Michael Mayer, TE, Notre Dame:  Like Bijan Robinson, Mayer won't be among the first players selected on April 27, but that doesn't mean he isn't one of the top prospects in this class. He's not as sudden as, say, Dalton Kincaid, nor does he block as well as Darnell Washington, but he's really, really good in many areas. He can win at all three levels, he's a QB's best friend in the middle of the field and when the game is on the line he has the ability to come up big time and again.) (2-27-23):  https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/2023-nfl-draft-top-25-big-board-bryce-young-is-no-1-a-top-four-qb-misses-the-cut/

One 2023 NFL Draft prospect to watch at every position at the NFL scouting combine (TIGHT END: MICHAEL MAYER, NOTRE DAME - While most are on here for their freakish tools, Mayer is here for his question marks. Specifically, his speed. Almost every impactful receiving tight end currently in the NFL ran a sub-4.7-second 40-yard dash before the draft. Mayer looks like he’ll be toeing that threshold next week. But then again, if he comes in at 265 pounds, which he was listed at for Notre Dame, speed will never be his game. While he produced a ton at Notre Dame, more of it came in contested situations than any of the other tight end in the class (17 catches for 218 yards)) (2-27-23):  https://www.pff.com/news/nfl-scouting-combine-prospects-to-watch-2023-nfl-draft

Tight Ends for Lions to Watch at 2023 NFL Scouting Combine (Michael Mayer, Notre Dame:  Considered to be among the draft’s best prospects, Mayer is an athletic, pass-catching tight end who will be an asset to whichever team selects him. He’s posted back-to-back seasons of 800-plus receiving yards, including during a 2022 campaign that saw the Fighting Irish struggle at the quarterback position.  He moves very well for his 6-foot-4 frame, and has all the necessary skills to be an impact player. If the Lions decide to seek out a true replacement for Hockenson, this is their most likely answer.) (2-23-23):  https://www.si.com/nfl/lions/news/lions-combine-preview-tight-ends

2023 NFL Combine preview: 10 tight ends the Lions should be watching (Michael Mayer, Notre Dame, 6-foot-5, 257:  One of the top tight end options in this class, Mayer is a true TE-Y (capable of lining up inline or in the slot) and is just as impactful stretching the field as he is blocking. One of the cleanest blockers in this draft cycle, Mayer pursues his target with aggression and aims to bury them. The biggest obstacle to Mayer is cost, as he is currently projected to go off the board in the first round.) (2-23-23):  https://www.prideofdetroit.com/2023/2/23/23608339/2023-nfl-combine-preview-10-tights-ends-the-lions-should-be-watching

2023 Combine preview: Tight end (1. Michael Mayer, Notre Dame, 6-5, 257:  Mayer has a big frame with a wide catch radius. He can line up in-line on the wing or in the slot. He has terrific hands and is really good at catching the ball in a crowd. He does all the little things to be an impact player very early in his career. He caught 138 passes for 1,649 yards and 16 touchdowns the last two seasons combined for the Irish.) (2-21-23):  https://www.detroitlions.com/news/2023-combine-preview-tight-end-mayer-musgrave-kincaid

2023 NFL Draft Position Rankings: Tight end (2. MICHAEL MAYER, NOTRE DAME (BIG BOARD RANK: 28):  Mayer is one of the highest-floor players in the draft. You know you're getting a complete, productive tight end at the next level. However, can he separate enough to be a true difference-maker?) (2-21-23):  https://www.pff.com/news/draft-2023-nfl-draft-position-rankings-tight-end

Bucky Brooks' top five 2023 NFL Draft prospects by position 1.0: Stroud, Young, Hooker top QB rankings (1.  TE Michael Mayer:  The 2023 tight end class will intrigue coaches and scouts seeking basketball-like athletes with post-up skills and soft hands. Mayer is the cream of the crop as an old-school "Y" with strong hands and a nose for the end zone (18 touchdowns over three seasons at Notre Dame). Teams looking for a classic tight end will salivate over his potential as an impact player.)  (2-16-23):  https://www.nfl.com/news/bucky-brooks-top-five-2023-nfl-draft-prospects-by-position-1-0-stroud-young-hook

Edwards Top-25 prospect rankings feature QBs, elite defenders (18. Michael Mayer, TE, Notre Dame:  Mayer is a well-rounded tight end capable of making contested catches or blocking for his teammates. Mayer is not going to test remarkably well in Indianapolis and that will ultimately place a ceiling on his potential. His value lies in his effort and consistency. Affectionately nicknamed "Baby Gronk" early in his career with the Irish, Mayer has great height with a muscular build. In each of the past three seasons, he has recorded at least 42 receptions.) (2-15-23):  https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/2023-nfl-draft-bryce-young-c-j-stroud-nipping-on-the-heels-of-elite-defenders-in-top-25-prospect-rankings/

2023 NFL draft film room: Notre Dame TE Michael Mayer (2-6-23):  https://draftwire.usatoday.com/lists/2023-nfl-draft-michael-mayer-notre-dame-highlights/

NFL Draft Outlook: Notre Dame Tight End Michael Mayer Is An Elite Prospect (1-17-23):  https://www.si.com/college/notredame/football/nfl-draft-notre-dame-tight-end-michael-mayer-is-an-elite-prospect

2023 NFL Draft: PFF's early favorite draft prospects (TE MICHAEL MAYER, NOTRE DAME (Key Number: 33 career contested catches (most in draft class by 16)):  This one may not actually apply to the premise because everyone is high on Mayer’s talents. It’s no surprise that the data loves him, too. He’s already proven to have excellent ball skills, catching 33 of his 55 contested targets over the course of his career. He’s also broken tackles at a high level for a tight end, with 31 in three seasons. Finally, Mayer can flat-out block. His 82.1 run-blocking grade was the second highest in the Power Five last season.) (1-5-23):  https://www.pff.com/news/draft-2023-nfl-draft-favorite-early-prospects

Top 10 Tight Ends in the 2023 NFL Draft: Dalton Kincaid, Tucker Kraft Lead the Chase Behind Michael Mayer (1.  Michael Mayer, Notre Dame:  In the 2023 NFL Draft, it’s Michael Mayer, then a big gap, then everyone else. There’s a lot of depth and quality talent to celebrate in this TE group, but no one comes close to matching the profile that Mayer boasts out of Notre Dame.  Mayer isn’t the kind of athlete that’ll blow your socks off at the NFL Combine. But on tape, you can see the functionality of his athleticism and foot speed, both in space and as a route runner. He has more than enough mobility and burst to work with, and he reinforces it with elite instincts and hands at the catch point.) (12-23-22):  https://www.profootballnetwork.com/top-10-te-in-the-2023-nfl-draft-cameron-latu-jaheim-bell-lead-the-chase-behind-michael-mayer/

2023 NFL Draft: Reacting to the AP All-American First Team Selections (Notre Dame tight end Michael Mayer is insanely gifted and should immediately be a Top Five receiving tight end in the league. The prospect of having a player of Mayer’s caliber on a rookie contract will be hard for many teams in the #11-20 range to pass up on the first night of the 2023 NFL Draft. Also, Tennessee wide receiver Jalin Hyatt burst onto the scene this year and may have secured himself a first-round slot with tremendous play in the Volunteers’ high-flying offense.) (12-18-22):  https://www.si.com/nfl/draft/news/2023-nfl-draft-reacting-to-the-ap-all-american-first-team-selections

Mel Kiper ranks Top 10 tight ends ahead of the 2023 NFL Draft (1. Michael Mayer, Notre Dame:  Unsurprisingly, Mel Kiper’s No. 1 tight end after the regular season is Notre Dame standout Michael Mayer. Although he did not win the Mackey Award, Mayer is considered the best blocking tight end in the country. He had 67 catches for 809 yards and nine touchdowns this season. In three seasons at Notre Dame, he accumulated 180 catches for 2,099 yards and 18 TDs.  “NFL teams want tight ends who can stretch the deep middle of the field — and block well enough to line up next to offensive tackles,” Kiper writes. “That’s Mayer, who can be a force in the red zone. Linebackers simply can’t cover him (and safeties struggle with his size). He has a wide catch radius and could produce as a pass-catcher in the NFL. He’s a complete player.”) (12-15-22):  https://www.on3.com/news/mel-kiper-ranks-top-10-tight-ends-ahead-of-the-2023-nfl-draft-michael-mayer-darnell-washington-cameron-latu/

2023 NFL Draft: Ranking the top 10 tight end prospects (1. MICHAEL MAYER, NOTRE DAME (JUNIOR | 6-4, 265) (2022 Grade: 92.5, Play Style: Inline Chain Mover, Initial Round Projection: 1):  If you’re drafting Mayer thinking you’ll get a Kyle Pitts or Travis Kelce or George Kittle, I’d temper expectations. The 6-foot-4, 265-pound Mayer is stylistically much closer to a Jason Witten than any of the tight ends listed above. Mayer, like Witten, lacks the long speed to be a consistent downfield separator. Despite Witten’s athletic limitations, though, he still had a six-year stretch where he averaged 92 catches and 1,018 yards a season. It’s very easy to see Mayer slotting into such a role because he was precisely that at Notre Dame. He went over 800 yards in each of the past two seasons with 138 catches and 16 scores over that span. Even without blazing speed, Mayer still led the draft class with 20 receptions on targets 10-plus yards downfield.  Unsurprisingly, Mayer is also one of the best blocking tight ends in the draft. His 82.1 run-blocking grade ranked fourth among the position in the FBS. That’s rare to see from only a third-year player. There aren’t many safer picks in the draft than Mayer.) (12-14-22):  https://www.pff.com/news/draft-2023-nfl-draft-top-10-tight-end-rankings

2022 PFF College Football Awards: Michigan RB Blake Corum takes home the Heisman (John Mackey Award (Best Tight End) (WINNER: TE MICHAEL MAYER, NOTRE DAME FIGHTING IRISH):  Michael Mayer is a top-15 prospect on PFF’s 2023 NFL Draft big board because he’s the most well-rounded tight end in the country.  The junior leads all tight ends in overall grade (92.5) and ranks second in receiving grade (91.6) and run-blocking grade (82.1). He also leads all tight ends in receiving touchdowns, contested catches and yards per route run. ) (12-7-22):  https://www.pff.com/news/college-football-2022-awards-michigan-blake-corum-heisman-trophy

2022 All-Independent College Football Team and Individual Honors (Tight End of the Year - Michael Mayer, Notre Dame.  First-Team All-Independent Offense - TE: Michael Mayer, Notre Dame) (12-6-22):  https://www.profootballnetwork.com/all-fbs-independent-college-football-team-and-individual-honors-2022/

2022 PFF College All-America Team: USC QB Caleb Williams, Texas RB Bijan Robinson and more (FIRST TEAM Offense - TE Michael Mayer, Notre Dame) (11-29-22):  https://www.pff.com/news/college-football-2022-pff-all-america-team-caleb-williams-bijan-robinson

2023 NFL Draft: Week 13 Stock Report (This isn’t the second day of Christmas; it’s just two of the top pure tight-end prospects we have seen in a long time. Notre Dame’s Michael Mayer and Utah’s Dalton Kincaid are two of the best all-around tight-end prospects that there can be. These prospects are not only great route runners and receivers but also outstanding blockers.   Since his freshman season Meyer has had us drooling at his abilities as a pass catcher, but what goes unspoken much of the time is just how important he is to the Irish run game. His ability as a blocker was a major key to Notre Dame’s success during his career, then you add his receiving skill, and it’s easy to see why he got the nickname “Baby Gronk.”   On the other hand, Kincaid took some time to develop, but he has a very comparable skill set to Mayer and took advantage of his final season and made it his arrival on to the scene. After transferring from the University of San Diego, Kincaid has flourished as a top tight-end prospect who can do anything asked of him, single-handedly winning games for the Utes. Turn on the USC tape to see Kincaid dominate the Trojans and keep them from an undefeated season. ) (11-28-22):  https://www.si.com/nfl/draft/news/2023-nfl-draft-week-13-stock-report

Notre Dame's Michael Mayer, Isaiah Foskey Named Top NFL Draft Prospects (11-17-22):  https://www.si.com/college/notredame/football/notre-dame-football-michael-mayer-isaiah-foskey-named-top-nfl-draft-prospects

Most valuable players in college football at every position through Week 11 (TIGHT END: MICHAEL MAYER, NOTRE DAME FIGHTING IRISH - Michael Mayer is PFF’s No. 13 prospect in the 2023 NFL Draft because of his all-around game. The junior has the third-best overall grade (90.7), third-best receiving grade (89.9) and seventh-best run-blocking grade (79.1) among tight ends in 2022. His 13 contested catches are four more than any other tight end in the country right now. ) (11-16-22):  https://www.pff.com/news/college-football-most-valuable-players-every-position-week-11-2022

4 Tight Ends Lions Could Draft to Replace T.J. Hockenson (Michael Mayer, Notre Dame:  Mayer is currently the consensus top prospect at the position in the 2023 draft class. He’s shown himself to be an explosive option in the pass game, though the Fighting Irish have struggled offensively under first-year head coach Marcus Freeman.  Additionally, starting quarterback Tyler Buchner was lost for the season, due to a shoulder injury in Week 2. Though the offense’s progress has been inhibited by hiccups, Mayer has still managed to log 47 receptions for 580 yards and six scores.  He has progress to make as an inline blocker, however. The NFL Draft Bible calls his abilities in the run game “adequate.” Yet, scouts believe that he’ll come along as a blocker, and he could still very well be a first-round pick.  Currently, Pro Football Focus has assigned him a 76.0 grade as a run-blocker. Meanwhile, his performance as a pass-blocker has earned him a 68.9 mark.  Mayer will have an opportunity to prove his mettle as the class’s best, when unbeaten Clemson and its stout defensive line travel to South Bend Saturday night.) (11-5-22):  https://www.si.com/nfl/lions/news/college-draft-prospects-to-replace-hockenson

2023 NFL Draft Stock - Week 9 (Washington, Porter, Tuipulotu, Burney, Vaughn, Baldonado, Smith, Mims) (11-1-22):  https://walterfootball.com/draft2023stock_09.php

2023 NFL Draft: Week 9 Stock Report (Is it safe to call this the year of the tight end? It seems like in every other game, we get to see an outstanding tight-end prospect. Whether it’s the two players everyone talked about before the season, Michael Mayer and Brock Bowers, or a new standout like Dalton Kincaid.  Notre Dame’s Meyer only had 54 receiving yards on three catches, but those were crucial yards. Every time he caught the ball, it seemed to be an extremely important catch. He has played that role all season long, though; he is simply a clutch player. Outside of his receiving skills, Meyer is a beast blocker. His blocking was the biggest contribution against Syracuse because he sealed running lanes, used his power to keep holes open, and allowed the running back to go through them. That was the difference maker in a back-and-forth game because it allowed Notre Dame to extend drives and win the game.  Each of these tight ends are complete players too. They are all outstanding receivers, which is mostly what we grade on, but their blocking ability makes all of them can’t miss prospects. They aren’t only great run blockers but also understand the importance of chipping pass rushers when running routes, which is a lost art these days.) (11-1-22):  https://www.si.com/nfl/draft/nfl-draft/2023-nfl-draft-week-9-stock-report

College Football Week 9 Live Reactions, Results, and Takeaways (Mayer Looking Every Bit TE1:  2:25 p.m. — Notre Dame tight end Michael Mayer has been a beast today, as the Irish are putting a beating on Syracuse 24-7 with the third quarter moving under five minutes remaining. Mayer has three receptions for 54 yards (18-yard average) and has made several big catches during important moments. He’s also done a real good job blocking, the area of his game which usually disappoints me. TP) (10-29-22):  https://www.profootballnetwork.com/college-football-week-9-live-reactions-results-and-takeaways/

Top 2023 NFL Draft Prospects: Ohio State QB C.J. Stroud Heads a Talented Class (8. Michael Mayer, TE, Notre Dame:  While true sophomore Brock Bowers garnered early attention as the top tight end in the nation, Notre Dame’s Michael Mayer has quietly gone about his business before exploding into the national spotlight in recent weeks.  Long considered the best of the tight end prospects in the 2023 NFL draft, he’s solidifying himself as one of the top talents in the entire class regardless of position.  Mayer is an exquisite receiving tight end. He uses his body control and size-relative athleticism to make plays that some smaller WRs can only dream of. At the catch point, he has the ball tracking, hand strength, and physicality. Mayer is also an impressive blocker at the tight end position, both technically and with sheer physicality.) (10-27-22):  https://www.profootballnetwork.com/2023-nfl-draft-prospects/

College Football Week 8: PFF Team of the Week and Player Awards (PFF TEAM OF THE WEEK Offense - TE: Michael Mayer, Notre Dame Fighting Irish) (10-24-22):  https://www.pff.com/news/college-football-week-8-pff-team-of-the-week-player-awards-2022

Week 8 College Football Team of the Week: Bo Nix Enters the Heisman Conversation (Tight End: Michael Mayer, Notre Dame - Accounting for the vast majority of his team’s receiving yards entering the game, Michael Mayer did nothing but impress against UNLV on Saturday. Mayer caught six passes for 115 yards and a touchdown. In total, Notre Dame’s other receivers had seven catches, 90 yards, and one touchdown.  Mayer’s biggest impact came on a first-down catch up the seam, where he did his best Tyrone Prothro impersonation. Using the defender’s back and just a single hand, Mayer made a catch for the highlight reel as he flashed his brilliant hands in the process.) (10-23-22):  https://www.profootballnetwork.com/college-football-team-of-the-week-week-8-2022/

2022 PFF Midseason College Football Awards: Alabama's Bryce Young, Michigan's Blake Corum among the winners (John Mackey Award (Best Tight End) - WINNER: MICHAEL MAYER (TE, NOTRE DAME FIGHTING IRISH):  Michael Mayer has dominated in South Bend since his true freshman season in 2020. He has an 87.4 receiving grade in that span, third among active FBS tight ends.  Mayer is the ultimate security blanket, with his 24 receiving first downs ranking third-most in the country among tight ends. He’s also been targeted on 30.6% of his routes, the second-highest rate at the position.) (10-20-22):  https://www.pff.com/news/college-football-2022-midseason-awards-bryce-young-blake-corum

Can Michael Mayer be CAUGHT for TE1? | TDN 100 October Update (10-19-22):  https://thedraftnetwork.com/media-item/can-michael-mayer-be-caught-for-te1-tdn-100-october-update/

2022 PFF Midseason College Football All-America Team (TIGHT END: MICHAEL MAYER, NOTRE DAME FIGHTING IRISH:  Michael Mayer has dominated in South Bend since his 2020 true freshman season. He has an 87.4 receiving grade in that span, ranking third among active FBS tight ends.  Mayer is the ultimate security blanket. His 24 receiving first downs are the third-most in the country for tight ends. He’s also been targeted on 30.6% of his routes, the second-highest rate at the position.) (10-18-22):  https://www.pff.com/news/college-footballl-2022-midseason-all-america-team

Detroit Lions 2023 draft watch: 7 players, including PSU CB Joey Porter Jr. (Michael Mayer, TE, Notre Dame (junior):  Mayer is the top tight end on most teams' draft boards due to his ability to play inline, win the contested catch, and create in short spaces. His elite competitiveness has drawn him the nickname: “Baby Gronk.”  Lions fit: Fans surely wouldn’t be happy drafting another tight end in the first round but he’d fit the offense and it’s important that the team does its homework on all the top players. It’s worth noting that the Lions had scouts with eyes on Notre Dame early in the season, and Mayer was surely on their watchlist.  An excerpt from CBS Sports Josh Edwards’ profile of Mayer:  “Mayer has great size for the tight end position. He showcases strong hands and an ability to get upfield quickly after the catch. The Kentucky native is not going to test off the charts physically, but there is zero wasted motion in his game. Mayer is a bear to bring down in open space, and he does a sufficient job of blocking both in space and inline. There is comfort for teams in knowing what they are getting by selecting Mayer — nicknamed “Baby Gronk” dating back to his freshman campaign.”) (10-15-22):  https://www.prideofdetroit.com/2022/10/15/23401536/detroit-lions-2023-draft-watch-joey-porter-jr-hendon-hooker-mazi-smith-michael-mayer-kyu-blu-kelly

2023 NFL Draft: Midseason College Football All-Prospect Team (TE: MICHAEL MAYER, NOTRE DAME:  Very few tight ends in the history of college football have served as the clear-cut focal point of their offense, and Mayer is one of them. The 6-foot-4, 265-pounder has 47 targets on the season — 22 more than anyone else for Notre Dame — and he has turned those into 33 catches for 351 yards and five scores.  Mayer hasn’t dropped a pass and has gone 8-of-11 in contested situations. He’ll be in the first-round mix, even without ideal speed.) (10-13-22):  https://www.pff.com/news/draft-2023-nfl-draft-scouting-notebook-midseason-college-football-all-prospect-team

2023 NFL Draft Stock - Week 6 (Up - Michael Mayer, TE, Notre Dame:  Mayer had a record-setting night versus BYU, surpassing Tyler Eifert for the most career receptions by a tight end in Fighting Irish history. Mayer played well against the Cougars and havinf his way with their defense. On Notre Dame's first drive, he caught a few short passes to help move the chains into BYU territory. Early in the second quarter, Mayer went down the seam and made a leaping grab for a touchdown from about 25 yards out. He had a few other receptions to help move the chains and put Notre Dame in position for more points.  In the third quarter, Mayer got open on an out route to convert a third-and-long, and then to finish the drive, he ran a corner route across the field and hauled in an over-the-shoulder catch for a 20-yard touchdown. Shortly later, Mayer came up short while trying to make a catch on an out route as the ball bounced off his hands. It was a difficult catch and not a bad drop. Mayer ended up totaling 11 receptions for 118 yards and two touchdowns.  Mayer's performance against BYU should help his draft grade, as he was a dynamic receiver who showed good route-running, athleticism, and natural feel as a receiver. Mayer needs to improve his blocking for the next level, but he looks like a future three-down starter who should go before the third round of the 2023 NFL Draft.) (10-11-22):  https://walterfootball.com/draft2023stock.php

College Football Week 6 Winners: The James Madison Dukes Continue Their College Football Fairytale (Michael Mayer:  During his regular radio spot in the heart of BYU country, PFN Draft Director Cam Mellor was asked about the top tight ends in the country. His response, when asked about the prospect most people consider as a lock for the first round of the 2023 NFL Draft was simple but at the same time spoke volumes about the talent the junior tight end possesses.  “He’d be the best tight end in college football if there was no Brock Bowers at Georgia.”  Following a difficult start to the season for the Notre Dame program, Michael Mayer has felt under-appreciated and almost neglected by the national media. In Saturday’s bruising win over BYU, Mayer racked up 118 receiving yards and two touchdowns, helping the Fighting Irish to overcome the 16th-ranked Cougars 28-20.  The statistical production was impressive, and he now leads all Notre Dame tight ends in career receptions. However, it was the performance itself that was sensational and show-stealing. People of Mayer’s size should simply not be able to move in such a manner. His athletic catch-point prowess is a joy to behold, with his extending, near-acrobatic first touchdown one to hang in the Louvre.) (10-10-22):  https://www.profootballnetwork.com/college-football-week-6-winners-the-james-madison-dukes-continue-their-college-football-fairytale/

Michael Mayer Sets Notre Dame All-Time Catches Mark (10-9-22):  https://www.si.com/college/notredame/football/michael-mayer-sets-notre-dame-all-time-catches-mark

Notre Dame Tight End Michael Mayer Continues To Raise His Game (10-9-22):  https://www.si.com/college/notredame/football/notre-dame-football-michael-mayer-continues-to-raise-his-game-stires

Week 6 College Football Team of the Week: Israel Abanikanda, Quinyon Mitchell Make History (Tight End: Michael Mayer, Notre Dame - It was a dominant first-half performance for Michael Mayer. The big man from Notre Dame was too much for the BYU defense to handle throughout the game, and his hot first half led to 11 receptions, 118 yards, and two touchdowns.  Mayer was tough to bring down and was the safety valve for Drew Pyne, as his situational awareness saw him find soft spots in coverage. He was a factor in the passing game, and all the attention BYU paid his way paved the way for an impressive rushing display from their backs.) (10-9-22):  https://www.profootballnetwork.com/college-football-team-of-the-week-week-6-2022/

College football Week 6 live reactions, results, and takeaways (Michael Mayer finds the end zone in a routine exercise:  8:20PM- It’s becoming an expectation each week, that Michael Mayer finds the end zone at least once for the Notre Dame Fighting Irish. It doesn’t matter who the quarterback is. Mayer is going to produce. That’s a valuable brand of reliability that should serve him well at the next level. On his most recent score, Mayer scraped past a chip, then past a DB in space, and made an excellent high-pointing adjustment for a lobbed pass, reeling it in past the pylon.  Mayer has a very complete skill set for a tight end. He’s not the unicorn that Kyle Pitts was, but with Mayer, you have all the requisite traits: Foot speed, lateral freedom, physicality, play strength, and high-end instincts. It’s what sets him apart at the collegiate level. IC) (10-8-22):  https://www.profootballnetwork.com/college-football-week-6-live-reactions-results-and-takeaways/

2023 NFL Draft: Week 4 Stock Report (Tight End Superstars - Michael Mayer:  It’s not very often that two of the best players in the country are tight ends, but that is exactly what we have this year with Notre Dame’s Michael Meyer and Georgia’s Brock Bowers. Both of these players are elite-level players who can play every aspect of their position and will be high first-round prospects. The tight-end position is one that has evolved immensely over the years and is now a position that can fit all types of athletes. For example, look at the difference between a player like Kyle Pitts and a one like Rob Gronkowski, two completely different body types. That is the variety there is at the position. However, both Meyer and Bowers are do-it-all elite tight ends. They can run, they can catch and they can block, and they do it all very well. This week, Bowers even added a 75-yard rushing touchdown to his stat sheet. When is the last time you heard about a tight end doing that? Meyer led Notre Dame in receiving yards and added a touchdown, but his leadership was really noticeable and also something his team needs so that is great to see. As long as they can continue their momentum throughout the season, they could be the highest pair of tight ends ever drafted.) (9-27-22):  https://www.si.com/nfl/draft/nfl-draft/2023-nfl-draft-week-4-stock-report

College Football Week 4: PFF Team of the Week & Player Awards (PFF TEAM OF THE WEEK Offense - TE: Michael Mayer, Notre Dame Fighting Irish) (9-26-22):  https://www.pff.com/news/college-football-week-4-pff-team-of-the-week-player-awards

College Football Week 4 Live Reactions, Results, And Takeaways (Tight ends coming in clutch in the 3:30 window.  4:10PM- There are a few talented tight ends seeing action in the 3:30 PM college football window. Brevyn Spann-Ford already has a couple chain-moving receptions for Minnesota. He’s a big-bodied 6’7″ receiving weapon with smooth athleticism and box-out ability. And then of course there’s Michael Mayer at Notre Dame. Already in the first quarter, he’s shown off his quick feet and vice-grip hands with a quick catch on a slant over the middle of the field, securing the pass amidst immediate contact. The depth and solidity of the 2023 NFL Draft TE class is on full display early. IC) (9-24-22):  https://www.profootballnetwork.com/college-football-week-4-live-reactions-results-and-takeaways/

Scouting Notebook: Top 2023 NFL Draft prospects at every position and more (TOP TE: MICHAEL MAYER, NOTRE DAME:  Mayer's pro prospects won’t suffer from the disastrous quarterback play Notre Dame has had, but it’s not helping his stat line. He has 15 catches for 145 yards and two scores but has been missed on a number of possible big plays. He’s not falling down anyone’s board anytime soon.) (9-22-22):  https://www.pff.com/news/nfl-draft-scouting-notebook-top-2023-prospects

2023 NFL Draft Stock - Week 3 (Down - Michael Mayer, TE, Notre Dame:  A number of NFL sources have told WalterFootball.com they are not very high on Mayer. They feel he has potential as a receiver, but see some flaws that keep him from being viewed as elite. They say he is neither an impressive blocker nor a great athlete. Those are concerning issues for a tight end who is primarily a pass catcher. Mayer could end up being a second-day prospect for the 2023 NFL Draft rather than the top tight end.) (9-20-22):  https://walterfootball.com/draft2023stock_03.php

2023 NFL Draft: Ranking the top 10 players at every position (Tight ends - 1. Michael Mayer, Notre Dame) (8-26-22):  https://www.profootballnetwork.com/2023-nfl-draft-ranking-the-top-10-players-at-every-position/

Top Notre Dame Prospects to Watch for 2023 NFL Draft (TE Michael Mayer:  As of now, Mayer is the clear-cut favorite to be the first tight end drafted in the 2023 class. He doesn’t have the same upside Kyle Pitts had coming out, but Mayer could easily land in the first round. His combination of blocking and pass-catching will make him a day one starter in any offense. At the next level, Mayer will be one of the better tight ends in the league for a very long time.) (8-23-22):  https://www.si.com/nfl/draft/nfl-draft/top-notre-dame-fightning-irish-prospects-to-watch-2023-nfl-draft

ACC 2023 NFL Draft prospects and scouting reports (Michael Mayer, TE | Grade: 4.04 | Projected Round: 1.  Junior tight end Michael Mayer is the top NFL prospect on the roster, and it’s not even close. Mayer is a big-bodied TE with natural pass-catching hands. He consistently makes the reception away from his frame and possesses strong hands. Mayer is also sneaky fast and stretches the seam to make big plays down the field.  He’s tough and makes the contested catch in a crowd and with defenders draped on him. That toughness really doesn’t carry over to blocking, as Mayer could best be characterized as poor in that area. He doesn’t get results or show a lot of desire in the blocking department. Still, his ability to catch the ball will be appealing to NFL teams in this day and age.) (8-22-22):  https://www.profootballnetwork.com/acc-2023-nfl-draft-prospects-and-scouting-reports/

Early Top-10 2023 NFL Draft Tight End Rankings: Notre Dame tight end Michael Mayer takes the top spot (1. MICHAEL MAYER, NOTRE DAME (JUNIOR) :  The learning curve at tight end in college is very similar to that in the NFL, meaning it’s difficult to contribute early on, but don’t tell that to Notre Dame’s leading receiver over the past two seasons.  Mayer is the rare tight-end prospect who’s NFL-ready as a true sophomore. No, he may not run like Kyle Pitts and won’t go nearly as high, but he can play an inline role that Pitts will never be able to fill.  However, don't get it twisted, he’s not some stiff as a receiver. What he lacks in pure explosiveness, Mayer makes up for in physicality. He has a knack for creating contact on his routes before leaving defenders grasping at his jersey when he makes his breaks. If he looks covered, that won’t be the case for long.  It’s scary to think that he already carries himself like the baddest dude on the field at only 20-years old. What will he look like in a few years in the league?) (6-8-22):  https://www.pff.com/news/draft-early-2023-nfl-draft-tight-end-rankings-michael-mayer-dalton-kincaid


Tight ends to watch for the 2023 NFL draft (Michael Mayer, Notre Dame:  As a senior at Covington Catholic High School in Park Hills, Kentucky, Michael Mayer earned a host of accolades. He was the Gatorade Kentucky Football Player of the Year, a USA Today All-American, and also was named Kentucky’s Mr. Football. That came after he caught 49 passes for 970 yards and 15 touchdowns during his senior season.  Mayer committed to Notre Dame, and was the team’s starting tight end as a true freshman in 2020, and he caught 42 passes for 450 yards and a pair of touchdowns. He was named a Third-Team All-ACC selection that year. Last season, Mayer caught 71 passes for 840 yards and seven touchdowns, leading Notre Dame in receptions. He caught nine passes for 120 yards against Florida State in the season-opener, tying the school record for catches in a single game by a tight end.  Notre Dame has not seen an offensive skill player drafted in the first round since Will Fuller V back in 2016, and their last tight end to come off the board in the first round was Tyler Eifert back in 2013. With another solid campaign this fall, Mayer is in position to change that.) (5-17-22):  https://touchdownwire.usatoday.com/lists/tight-end-watch-list-2023-nfl-draft/

2023 NFL Draft: Offensive prospects to watch (Michael Mayer:  Mayer is a physical tight end with soft hands and an ability to turn upfield quickly. Not known for his explosive traits, the Kentucky native is a great blocker.) (5-11-22):  https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/2023-nfl-draft-c-j-stroud-and-bryce-young-among-offensive-prospects-to-watch-in-2022-college-football-season/

2023 NFL Draft Watch List: Offense (Michael Mayer, Notre Dame:  Mayer is the most complete tight end on this list already — he won’t win too many underwear Olympics before the draft, but he’s as reliable as they come on the football field. He hauled in 71 passes for 840 yards and seven scores as a sophomore last season.) (5-5-22):  https://www.pff.com/news/draft-2023-nfl-draft-watch-list-offense

2023 NFL draft prospects to watch: 10 quarterbacks, 10 non-QBs we like early on (TE Michael Mayer, Notre Dame:  One of the more mature young tight ends in the country the past few seasons, Mayer might not be drafted quite as highly as Kyle Pitts was in 2021, but the sky is the limit for Mayer’s NFL potential. He has a showcase game in the opener against FSU last season and capped the season with a two-TD effort in the bowl game vs. Oklahoma State. Mayer’s length, receiving ability and toughness are all traits the NFL loves in tight ends.) (5-3-22):  https://sports.yahoo.com/2023-nfl-draft-prospects-to-watch-10-quarterbacks-10-non-q-bs-we-like-early-on-181039990.html

Posted by LionsFan at 6:58 PM

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