Following the retirement of Frank Ragnow, the Detroit Lions urgently sought a new center as the offseason began. The team acted fast in free agency, signing Cade Mays to take over the crucial role at the heart of their offensive line.
Cade Mays Signs Three-Year Deal After Time with Panthers
The Lions agreed to a three-year contract worth $25 million with Mays, who spent his first four professional seasons with the Carolina Panthers, according to Joe Person of The Athletic. During that stint, Mays appeared in 52 games and started 27, including 12 starts in 14 games during the 2025 season.
Mays’s Performance and Physical Presence Align with Lions’ Needs
Mays earned an overall score of 62.4 from Pro Football Focus, placing him 24th out of 40 centers, while his 69.4 pass blocking grade ranked him fourth in that skill. Standing 6-foot-6 and weighing 325 pounds, Detroit anticipates Mays will be vital in opening running lanes and protecting quarterback Jared Goff in the pocket.
Offensive Line Changes Aim to Support Key Playmakers
Detroit’s offensive front has seen significant changes, including the release of veteran tackle Taylor Decker and the trade of running back David Montgomery to Houston Texas. Nevertheless, rising star Jahmyr Gibbs remains with the team, making it critical for the Lions to have a strong center who can block effectively for him.
Lions Hope Mays Anchors Offensive Line Success
As the Lions reshuffle their offensive line, the signing of Cade Mays represents their top priority in building a cohesive blocking unit. Detroit is trusting Mays to be central to any offensive progress over the next three years, viewing free agency as the best way to secure a long-term solution at center.
C Cade Mays to the Lions on a three-year, $25 million deal with $14M guaranteed, per league source.
Panthers need a center.— Joe Person (@josephperson) March 9, 2026
