With NFL Free Agency becoming thinner by the day, the Miami Dolphins need to explore the trade market. They still have a handful of starting positions available and need an influx of talent across the roster.
Most of those additions will come via 2025 NFL Draft selections, but Dolphins General Manager Chris Grier should inquire about Las Vegas Raiders tight end Michael Mayer.
The Raiders selected Mayer in the second round (No. 35 overall) of the 2023 NFL Draft, but he's struggled to adapt to the professional game. He's rightfully fallen behind All-Pro Brock Bowers on the depth chart and needs a fresh start.
Mayer has started 20 of his 25 career games, totaling 48 receptions, 460 receiving yards, and two touchdowns in two seasons. Due to personal matters, he missed six games in 2024 but returned against the Dolphins in Week 11.
With Mayer past those issues and being shopped by Las Vegas, Miami would be a great place to start over. Starting tight end Jonnu Smith is coming off a career year (88 receptions, 884 receiving yards, 8 touchdowns), but he turns 30 years old before the season.
The Dolphins need another weapon around quarterback Tua Tagovailoa, and Mayer could develop into QB1's future TE1. At only 23 years old, Mayer is an above-average blocker and has untapped potential as a pass catcher.
Like most deals, Miami's interest in Mayer likely comes down to price. The 2025 tight end class (Tyler Warren, Colston Loveland, Mason Taylor, Elijah Arroyo, etc.) is deep and talented, so I'd expect a Day 3 pick to close the deal.
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This story was originally published March 23, 2025 at 8:00 AM.