Michael Mayer takes starting role for Raiders as Brock Bowers recovers from injury

Las Vegas Raiders tight end Michael Mayer will start in place of Brock Bowers, who is sidelined for at least one to two games following knee surgery. This shift provides Mayer with an increased workload after he previously started four games for the team last season during a similar absence. In those four appearances, Mayer recorded 18 catches on 24 targets. The 2023 second-round draft pick enters the season as a pending free agent and faces critical evaluation regarding his future prospects in the league. Team management and other organizations are expected to monitor his performance closely while Bowers remains unavailable. The outcome of these upcoming games could influence Mayer's contract status for next year.

• 6:01 PMYahoo Sports — Raiders offense: Spotlight is on Michael Mayer