Who Should I Start? Michael Mayer or Luke Schoonmaker

Thursday, August 7, 3:53 PM

ESPN's Ryan McFadden reports that Las Vegas Raiders tight end Michael Mayer has been a standout in training camp. The Notre Dame product flashed during his rookie campaign, but the addition of Brock Bowers in 2024 was a detriment to Mayer's playing time. While Bowers and new quarterback Geno Smith have quickly gotten on the same page, Mayer has had an excellent camp of his own. The 24-year-old has been an offensive standout since OTAs, per McFadden, who also notes offensive coordinator Chip Kelly has "big plans" for him in 2025. There are undoubtedly targets up for grabs in the Raiders' offense, and Mayer may play a nice role for them. However, that translating to fantasy isn't a guarantee. Bowers and wide receiver Jakobi Meyers are worth rostering for now, but Mayer will have to impress in preseason action before he's worthy of fantasy managers' attention in drafts.

Thursday, August 21, 10:35 AM

Dallas Cowboys coach Brian Schottenheimer said that tight end Luke Schoonmaker (concussion) is officially in concussion protocol, as relayed by Jon Machota of The Athletic. The third-year tight end left Monday's practice early and now must clear protocol before returning to the field. Schoonmaker is coming off a career-best 27 catches and 241 yards in a year in which Dallas played half the season without quarterback Dak Prescott. Jake Ferguson, who finished second on the team in targets in 2024, is still on track to be Dallas' top receiving tight end.