Michael Mayer Scouting Report
By: Michael Higgins
(Image courtesy of Matt Cashore/USA Today Sports)
School: Notre Dame (Junior)
Position: TE
HT: 6’4
WT: 251 lbs
Sideline Prospect Ranking: #15
Michael Mayer was a 4 star recruit out of Covington Catholic, where he won Gatorade Kentucky Player of the Year in 2019. Mayer was also a participant in the 2020 Army All-American Bowl. He has been a successful player since his early days in football and he has never slowed down his production. Michael Mayer is considered by many to be a relatively safe prospect. He has sure hands and uses his body well, acting as a safety net and reliable weapon for his quarterback. In an offense that had its case of the yips this season, Mayer was a lone bright spot as he cemented himself as one of, if not the, greatest tight end in Notre Dame history. While Mayer is mainly an in-line tight end, he can line up in a 2-point stance in the slot if needed. With being a predominantly an in-line tight end, he is a willing and effective blocker in the run game. Throwing his body around while also being technically sound in his blocks. He is a 3 down tight end right away due to his ability to block not only in the run game, but in the pass game as well. Mayer is also a great receiving option. He has solid speed for a tight end, making him a threat in every area of the field. Opposing defenses will not have success putting any linebacker on Mayer, as he can lose them with a combination of speed and footwork. With that being said, Mayer is also a mismatch for smaller cornerbacks and will be able to out physical them. Mayer is aggressive at the catch point and comes down with 50/50 balls at an impressive rate. Mayer is one of the prospects more ready for the NFL game and will see his game translate smoothly to the next level.
There are not many weaknesses in Mayer’s game, you have to get real picky. Sure he isn’t as exciting as a guy like Kyle Pitts was, but he’s a safe pick to help an offense. He won’t typically line up in the slot as a receiver like a Travis Kelce would, but he provides a big body, reliable target for his offense. Another downside that you can’t really fault Mayer for is the value of his position. Tight ends are often taken later than other positions and take a much longer leash to develop at the next level. While Mayer could be an instant impact guy, do not expect him to make an immediate big splash at the next level.
Michael Mayer is the most pro-ready tight end and has undeniable natural ability. While it normally takes tight ends a few seasons in the NFL before they really blossom into the stars we see today. While it might take him a few seasons to reach his potential, he will still have an instant impact due to his ability to block in both the pass and run game combined with his natural pass catching ability.
Scheme Fit: Pro Spread
Ideal Role: In-Line TE
Best Team Fits: LAC, DET, CAR
Player Comparison: Dallas Goedert
Player Grade: 86.9
