Cade Mays Signs with Detroit Lions
Cade Mays, a sixth-round pick out of Tennessee in 2022, has officially signed a three-year contract with the Detroit Lions. The deal is valued at $25 million, with $14 million guaranteed, marking a significant step in Mays’ career as he joins a team looking to strengthen its offensive line.
Prior to this signing, Mays played for the Carolina Panthers, where he started 12 games in the 2025 season. During that time, he showcased his skills by allowing zero sacks and only 11 quarterback pressures, making him one of the more reliable centers available in free agency.
The Lions recently released Frank Ragnow, which created a need for a strong center. Following Ragnow’s retirement, the team struggled at the center position, prompting them to seek a capable replacement. Mays is expected to fill this gap and enhance the Lions’ offensive capabilities for the upcoming 2026 season.
Joe Person reported, “Cade Mays to the Lions on a three-year, $25 million deal with $14M guaranteed, per league source.” This statement underscores the Lions’ commitment to improving their offensive line after a challenging period.
Mays’ journey has not been straightforward; after being drafted, he played primarily as a backup for his first two seasons. He started two games as a rookie, even taking on the role of a fullback at times. However, he was cut by the Panthers at the end of training camp in 2024, only to sign briefly with the New York Giants’ practice squad before returning to Carolina.
His performance in 2025 demonstrated his potential, as he played 726 snaps without allowing a sack and achieved a 94.3 percent run block win rate. These statistics indicate that Mays is not only a solid player but also one who can contribute significantly to the Lions’ offensive strategies.
Observers noted that Mays showed why the competition for the starting job was close throughout training camp, highlighting his determination and skill. His signing is seen as a crucial move for the Lions as they prepare for the upcoming season.
As the Lions move forward with Mays on their roster, expectations are high for his impact on the team’s performance. The coaching staff, led by Dan Campbell, is optimistic about what Mays can bring to the offensive line.
With this signing, the Lions are taking proactive steps to ensure a stronger offensive front, aiming for improved results in the 2026 season. The addition of Mays is a strategic move that reflects the team’s commitment to enhancing their overall performance.
