2020 Notre Dame TE Commit Michael Mayer Ready For Multiple Roles This Fall

The bar is set high at Covington Catholic High School and that’s fine with Michael Mayer‍.

“Coming off last year, going 16-0 and winning a state championship, you honestly can’t beat that, so that’s obviously the goal,” the 2020 Notre Dame tight end commit said.

The Kentucky native does see room for improvement, though.

“I think one thing is not allowing as many points on defense,” said Mayer.

And while his future will be on the offensive side of the ball in college, the 6-foot-5, 245-pounder is able to help on the other side in high school.

“I played defensive end last year,” he explained. “I’m moving to linebacker this year.”

Playing both ways can be taxing, but Mayer sees the positives.

“You’re going to get more tired, but it gets you more in shape,” he said.

Changing positions will keep him more involved in the game mentally and physically.

“Getting to play middle linebacker, you have to understand the offense,” he said. “Getting the calls and all of that stuff, you understand the offense too.”

He’s also eager to showcase his talents at tight end as a junior.

“I think my blocking has definitely improved along with my frame and power,” he said. “I’ve gained 25 to 35 pounds and I think that’s helped me. My route-running has definitely improved.

“I think everything overall has improved and this year I’m going to show it.”

Mayer is also aware that opponents will be looking to make names for themselves against him, but the state title ensured that was going to happen regardless.

“That definitely gives you a boost because they’re going to bring their best against me and my teammates, that’s what you want,” he said. “I think I’ll be able to handle it just fine.”

Mayer is confident in his squad’s potential this season.

“We’ve got a lot of athletes,” he said. “One thing we’ve got to work on is the younger kids.”

That’s another area where he’ll be counting on himself.

“I’m definitely trying to step up in a leadership role,” he said. “Being a leader and being more vocal. Last year, I was little more quiet and shy.”

Mayer will be part of a large contingent of Notre Dame pledges at the opener in South Bend on Sept. 1st, when Michigan comes to town.

“I’m really excited,” he said. “The atmosphere is going to be amazing. It’s a big game.”

Mayer has kept in touch with fellow 2020 Irish commits, Drew Pyne and Kevin Bauman via text and social media. The group is eager to grow, but that’s not Mayer’s primary concern as of now.

“We’re going to talk more about that, but now that I’m in training camp, I’m really focused on that right now.”