The Michael Mayer contract will pay the Las Vegas Raiders tight end $45 million over three years, putting his average annual salary above Pittsburgh Steelers tight end Darnell Washington’s deal.
Mayer’s extension is worth $15 million per season. Washington previously signed a four-year contract worth $10.5 million annually, or about $42 million in total.
The comparison comes as both teams commit significant money to tight ends who play alongside established starters. Las Vegas also has Brock Bowers, who remains central to its offence.
Mayer received additional opportunities when Bowers dealt with injuries last season, according to the report. Washington, meanwhile, has developed a defined role with Pittsburgh as a blocker while also contributing as a receiver.
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The Steelers’ agreement gives Washington an average salary $4.5 million lower than Mayer’s while keeping him under contract for an additional season.
Mayer’s new price makes Washington’s extension look more favourable for Pittsburgh. That assessment is opinion rather than an established evaluation of either contract’s long-term value.