NFL Draft Profile: Michael Mayer, Tight End, Notre Dame Fighting Irish
In this story:
#87
Pos: TE
Ht: 6044
Wt: 249
Hand: 0948
Arm: 3158
Wing: 7628
40: 4.70
DOB: 7/6/2001
Hometown: Independence, KY
High School: Covington Catholic
Eligibility: 2023
Michael Mayer
Notre Dame Fighting Irish
One-Liner:
Tough enough to break tackles after the catch and elusive enough to make defenders miss in the open field.
Evaluation:
A rare blend of size, athleticism, toughness and pure natural talent, Mayer is the definition of prototype at the tight end position. He led the Fighting Irish in receiving with 840 yards, along with seven touchdowns on 71 receptions in 12 games in 2021. Mayer forces opposing defenders to make business decisions with the ball in his hands, as he runs at them like a mack truck. He is extremely tough to bring down, often requiring multiple defenders to do so. The team captain brings a ferocious intensity and is a notorious hard worker. While his blocking is adequate, there is room for improvement in his development. Mayer chose Notre Dame over Alabama, Georgia, LSU, Michigan, Ohio State, Texas and has lived up to his top billing. Overall, his ability to run, catch, block and break tackles makes him an immediate impact player at the next level. With such a well-rounded game, Mayer stands a really strong shot to be chosen inside the top ten, should he decide to enter the 2023 NFL Draft.
Grade:
1st Round
Quotes:
"If I learned one thing during the draft process, it’s that NFL teams love them some Michael Mayer." -- Kyle Hamilton on Michael Mayer
“Mike is as intense and as competitive a guy as I’ve been around. He is wired in a way that is unbelievable. He plays angry, and in the best way possible. Mike’s a special dude.” – Notre Dame offensive coordinator Tommy Rees on Michael Mayer
Background:
Michael Mayer has made a major impact for the Fighting Irish beginning his freshman year where he played in all twelve games. Starting versus Duke he had three receptions for thirty eight yards. After a great start to his career, his sophomore year, he started all twelve games and lead the team in catches and tied for first for touchdowns. He impressed versus Florida State with nine catches for one hundred and twenty yards. At his size, Mayer is built like a perfect tight end for any team.
Won the starting job as a true freshman. Did not begin playing football until his freshman year of high school—his focus was on basketball and baseball. Played for coach Eddie Eviston at Covington Catholic; named the 2019 Gatorade Kentucky Football Player of the Year.
