Las Vegas Raiders trade up to take TE Michael Mayer

The Las Vegas Raiders are getting busy to kick off Day 2, trading up to draft tight end Michael Mayer.

Las Vegas moved up from No. 38 to No. 35, trading the Indianapolis Colts their former second-round pick, and No. 141 this year.

The Raiders make the move after the Detroit Lions selected TE Sam Laporta only a pick earlier. Fearing a run on tight ends, general manager Dave Ziegler makes a big move to get a valuable offensive weapon.

Luck of the Irish 🍀 pic.twitter.com/NYjx1RWnL6

— Las Vegas Raiders (@Raiders) April 28, 2023

Michael Mayer, 21, is a do-it-all-player, able to catch the ball and block at a high level. Starting three seasons for Norte Dame, he racked up 180 catches, 2099 receiving yards and 18 touchdowns. He featured in 36 collegiate contests, showing his durability on the field.

Ranked as the No. 2 tight end in the 2023 class, the Raiders make the right move and steal a plug-and-play starter for the next decade. He will replace Darren Waller next season, traded to the New York Giants earlier this offseason.

Love the Mayer pick for the #Raiders. I'm a big fan. Not super explosive, but has great hands, makes catches on the boundary, can work the seam, and is really good in the red zone. Also, he was a willing blocker for that great Notre Dame run game.

— Nick Cattles (@NickCRadio) April 28, 2023

Remaining picks for the Las Vegas Raiders

Barring any further trades, the Raiders will have multiple picks in four of the final seven rounds. Round 5 will see the Raiders make three selections. Here’s a breakdown of where they’re picking:

• Round 3 – No. 70 and 100
• Round 4 – No. 109
• Round 5 – No., 144, 174
• Round 6 – No. 204 and 214
• Round 7 -No. 220 and 231

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