Who Should I Start? Theo Johnson or Michael Mayer

Friday, December 6, 9:48 AM

New York Giants tight end Theo Johnson (foot) underwent a season-ending surgery to address the foot injury he suffered on Thanksgiving against the Cowboys. According to Art Stapleton, the issue was a fifth metatarsal fracture and not a Lisfranc injury. This means the rookie finishes his first season with 29 receptions for 331 yards and a touchdown on 43 targets through 12 appearances. There hasn't been a confirmed timetable for his return yet. That means Daniel Bellinger will be the starter to finish out the season.

Saturday, March 1, 12:17 PM

According to league sources, the Las Vegas Raiders have had discussions with teams who have interest in tight end Michael Mayer. The team's second-round selection in 2023, Mayer hasn't had the type of impact the Raiders were hoping for, which is why they took Brock Bowers in the first round in 2024. Not only did Bowers become a first-team All-Pro in his rookie season, but Mayer had only 27 catches for 304 yards and two touchdowns in 14 games in his first year in 2023. He missed six games last season due to personal reasons and was barely heard from as Bowers excelled. It makes more sense for Vegas to trade Mayer for assets, and since he'll be on a team-friendly deal for two more years, there should be several teams that are interested. Mayer was completely off the fantasy radar in 2024, but he could resurface as a sleeper if he's traded to a team that utilizes him much more as a pass-catcher.