Las Vegas Raiders tight end Michael Mayer had big expectations coming into the season after getting drafted in the second round of the 2023 NFL Draft. While he’s had a decent start to the season, his value is found in many areas, including contributions on special teams.
However, the young tight end had a scary moment in the Raiders’ Week 3 game against the Washington Commanders. With Las Vegas officially ruling Mayer out, let’s take a look at what happened to the Raiders tight end.
What Happened to Las Vegas Raiders TE Michael Mayer?
At the end of the first quarter of the Raiders’ Week 3 matchup against the Commanders, punter A.J. Cole sent a punt 41 yards to Washington punt returner Jaylin Lane. Lane, who has been impressive in his rookie year on kick returns, was able to return the punt 25 yards.
While a penalty killed the return yardage, Mayer attempted to tackle Lane and hit him with his head. The contact gave Mayer some evident head trauma as the third-year tight end displayed a fencing response on the ground with his arms stretched outwards.
Michael Mayer is displaying the fencing response after this hit to the head, meaning definite #concussion and “no-go” return.
He’s only listed as questionable – either a miscommunication, gamesmanship or a spotter will be fired… pic.twitter.com/vgUb0eMCZg— Chris Nowinski, Ph.D. (@ChrisNowinski1) September 21, 2025
According to neuroscientist Chris Nowinski on X, “Michael Mayer is displaying the fencing response after this hit to the head, meaning definite #concussion and ‘no-go’ return. He’s only listed as questionable; either a miscommunication, gamesmanship, or a spotter will be fired.”
The incident was troubling, as those moments are extremely scary, as head injuries can vary in severity from player to player, and there’s no actual timeline for recovery. Las Vegas will hope for the best, but it goes without saying that the tight end was ruled out fairly quickly following the injury.
Las Vegas still has stud tight-end Brock Bowers to hold the position down and veteran Ian Thomas as depth behind him. However, depending on how long Mayer needs to recover, the Raiders may look to fill his absence on the waiver wire or promote Albert Okwuegbunam Jr. or Carter Runyon from the practice squad.
Whatever the Raiders decide, everyone will hope for a speedy recovery for Mayer. Witnessing an apparent head injury with the fencing response is always a concerning sight on the football field.