Stock up, stock down for Raiders after loss, including an emerging threat in passing game

Tight end Michael Mayer delivered the most productive game of his career Sunday against the Bills, catching seven passes for 95 yards while playing alongside Brock Bowers. Coach Klint Kubiak praised Mayer's versatility, saying, "He's a factor even when they're not (focused on taking) away Brock. Mike's a leader on our team and a productive player that does a lot of dirty work and can catch the ball, stretch the seam, make guys miss in the flats." The performance validates the team's decision to sign Mayer to a significant extension this offseason despite Bowers' presence.

Cornerback Darien Porter reclaimed his starting job from rookie Hezekiah Masses and earned Kubiak's praise for his resilience. Left guard Spencer Burford turned in one of his cleanest pass-protection efforts of the season, with Kubiak calling him "a really great addition for our team" who is "continuing to improve." Wide receiver Tre Tucker emerged as a deep threat, scoring two fourth-quarter touchdowns including a long strike down the middle that Kubiak said will force future opponents to respect the vertical passing game.

Linebacker Quay Walker continued to struggle in coverage; according to Pro Football Focus, Buffalo completed all six targets against him for 78 yards and a 118.8 passer rating. Special teams contributor Segun Olubi committed back-to-back penalties late in the game — holding on a kickoff return and a facemask on a punt return — that hurt field position. Running back Ashton Jeanty, the No. 6 overall pick, has yet to produce consistently amid injuries and stacked defensive fronts, though the organization expects more from its heavy investment.

Sources: Las Vegas Review-Journal