The Miami Dolphins now have a noticeable gap in the middle of their offense after shipping tight end Jonnu Smith to the Pittsburgh Steelers in a stunning trade that also involved cornerback Jalen Ramsey. Smith was a favorite target in the Dolphins’ passing game after having his best season of his career, with 88 receptions, 884 yards, and eight touchdowns.
As the front staff searches for a replacement, Las Vegas Raiders tight end Michael Mayer’s name keeps coming up.
Las Vegas Raiders Unlikely To Trade Michael Mayer Unless Miami Dolphins Gets Aggressive
Many consider the 23-year-old Mayer as one of the NFL’s most promising young tight ends. Given the Raiders’ Brock Bowers’ outstanding rookie campaign and the addition of veteran quarterback Geno Smith, it’s also reasonable to believe that Las Vegas could be open to letting Mayer go, particularly if Bowers builds on his 2024 performance.
Not so fast, though.
According to Raiders insider Vincent Bonsignore, Mayer isn’t going anywhere unless Miami is ready to make a serious offer.
“The Raiders have big plans for their tight ends and Mayer is a big part of those plans,” Bonsignore wrote. “But if the Miami Dolphins make a legitimate offer, you’d have to at least consider it.”
The @Raiders have big plans for their tight ends and Mayer is a big part of those plans.
But if the @MiamiDolphins make a legitimate offer, you’d have to at least consider it. https://t.co/ma1GETLXBP
– Vincent Bonsignore (@VinnyBonsignore) June 30, 2025
Translation? He’s not untouchable, but he’s far from easily attainable.
Pete Carroll, now in charge of a Raiders squad with an unexpectedly high level of young talent, is expected to have Mayer play a significant role in the offense’s development. When Mayer and Bowers are paired, Las Vegas gains versatility, firepower, and future promise at the position, all of which they are unwilling to give up easily.
Dolphins Face Tough Decision As Raiders Set High Price for Mayer Trade
And the asking price reflects that.
“Anything less than a third would be a non-starter,” Bonsignore added. “He’s worth more to the @Raiders this year than a future fourth-round pick or below.”
Anything less than a third would be a non-starter. He’s worth more to the @Raiders this year than a future fourth round pick or below. https://t.co/yOZkVhTNka
— Vincent Bonsignore (@VinnyBonsignore) June 30, 2025
It’s a tough pill to swallow for Miami. A third-round pick is a highly valuable asset, particularly for a team attempting to strike a balance between short-term success and long-term stability. However, the Dolphins currently have few compelling options. There isn’t a clear leader in their tight end room, and time is running out as training camp approaches.
Mayer has the upside, the skill set, and the physical tools Miami needs. Making a deal makes sense. However, the door could remain closed unless the Dolphins are prepared to meet what Bonsignore reports are the Raiders’ demands.
For now, the search continues. With Mayer likely off the table unless Miami gets aggressive, the pressure is back on the Dolphins to figure out what’s next.
