Lions Sign Center Cade Mays to 3-Year, $25M Deal

Mays expected to fill void left by retirement of veteran Frank Ragnow

Mar. 14, 2026 at 4:38am

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The Detroit Lions have signed center Cade Mays to a three-year contract worth $25 million, earning praise as an under-the-radar free agency addition. Mays, who previously played for the Carolina Panthers, is expected to step in and provide a steady presence on the offensive line after the retirement of longtime starter Frank Ragnow.

Why it matters

The Lions' offensive line has been a key part of their success over the past few seasons, and the loss of Ragnow was seen as a significant blow. Mays' signing helps fill that void and provides stability in the middle of the line to support the team's high-powered offense.

The details

NFL.com's Bucky Brooks highlighted Mays as one of the best 'overlooked' additions in free agency this year, noting that the 25-year-old center has shown promise in his limited opportunities with the Panthers and has the potential to become a reliable starter. The Lions were in the market for a replacement for Ragnow, who retired after the 2025 season.

  • Mays signed a three-year contract with the Lions on March 14, 2026.
  • Ragnow retired from the NFL after the 2025 season.

The players

Cade Mays

A 25-year-old center who previously played for the Carolina Panthers and is now joining the Detroit Lions on a three-year, $25 million contract.

Frank Ragnow

The longtime starting center for the Detroit Lions, who retired after the 2025 season.

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What they’re saying

“Mays has shown promise during his limited opportunities with the Carolina Panthers, showing that he has what it takes to become a starter. The Lions have been seeking a steady presence since the retirement of Frank Ragnow in 2025, and Mays could fill that role.”

— Bucky Brooks, NFL.com Analyst (NFL.com)

What’s next

The Lions will look to Mays to step in and solidify the center position on their offensive line, providing stability and support for their high-powered offense in the 2026 season.

The takeaway

The Lions' signing of Cade Mays to a three-year, $25 million contract is an under-the-radar move that could pay big dividends for the team. Mays has the potential to fill the void left by the retirement of longtime starter Frank Ragnow and provide a steady presence in the middle of the offensive line.