During the opening day of the NFL’s legal tampering period, the Detroit Lions made a significant addition by signing Cade Mays, a center formerly with the Carolina Panthers. This move comes as Detroit looks to fill key gaps in their offensive line following departures of veterans Amik Robertson and Alex Anzalone to other teams. Mays is expected to take over as the Lions’ starting center after the release of Graham Glasgow, whose recent performance failed to meet the team’s high expectations.
Mays agreed to a three-year contract valued at $25 million, including $14 million guaranteed at signing, according to several NFL insiders. This acquisition aims to bolster Detroit’s offensive front as they prepare for the upcoming season.
Evaluating Cade Mays’ Strengths and Areas of Concern
Cade Mays, a sixth-round draft pick in 2022, has steadily climbed into a starting role during his time in the NFL. Over his career, he has appeared in 52 games, starting in 27 of them. Last year, the Tennessee native started 12 out of 14 games for the Panthers, showing promising development at center.
According to Pro Football Focus (PFF), Mays ranked 24th among qualifying centers in 2025, an improvement over Glasgow’s 32nd place finish. His pass-blocking skills particularly stand out, placing him among the top 12 centers in the league for protecting the quarterback last season.
Nevertheless, Mays’ run blocking has raised some doubts. His grade for run blocking last season was ranked as the eighth worst among centers, although he still edged out Glasgow by three positions in this category. This aspect of his game will likely require improvement to fully meet Detroit’s offensive needs.
Durability is another factor to consider, as Mays has faced multiple health setbacks. Throughout his NFL career and during preseason, various injuries—including ankle, shoulder, and finger issues—have caused him to miss time. Last year, he also struggled with illness, which sidelined him for part of the season.
How Mays Fits Into Detroit’s Offensive Line Plans
Detroit enters the season with a new offensive coordinator, Drew Petzing, known for his expertise in designing run-focused strategies. Mays will join fellow center Juice Scruggs, acquired in the trade sending David Montgomery to the Houston Texans, and is expected to start at center while Scruggs offers depth across the center and guard positions.
This signing addresses critical gaps left by the release of Graham Glasgow and the unexpected re-retirement of Frank Ragnow due to injury last November. It also allows the Lions to avoid reaching for a center early in the NFL Draft, preserving their draft capital for other needs.
The Lions boast a high-powered offense with numerous explosive skill players, and securing Mays on a cost-effective deal shows a commitment to strengthening the offensive line. With Petzing’s running game focus, the team hopes Mays can develop further as a run blocker, enhancing Detroit’s ground attack.
Assessment of the Signing
Overall, the acquisition of Cade Mays represents a calculated move by the Detroit Lions. His proven aptitude as a pass blocker, combined with room to grow in run blocking, presents an opportunity for the Lions’ offensive line to improve on recent struggles. Health risks remain a concern, but Mays’ contract and expected starting role demonstrate the team’s belief in his potential.
With the forthcoming season, how Mays adapts to Detroit’s system and tackles his weaknesses will be crucial in determining the success of this signing. The move also maintains stability within the offensive line, a foundational element for the Lions as they aim to enhance their offensive efficiency.
