Detroit Lions Sign Center Cade Mays to Bolster Offensive Line

Former five-star recruit brings size, versatility, and starting experience to Detroit's front five.

Published on Mar. 9, 2026

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The Detroit Lions have signed center Cade Mays, a former five-star recruit and SEC standout, to help replace the retired Pro Bowl center Frank Ragnow. Mays, who has experience playing multiple offensive line positions, is expected to compete for the starting center job and provide valuable depth along the Lions' offensive front.

Why it matters

The Lions' offensive line has been a priority for the team since Ragnow's retirement, and Mays' addition gives them another experienced option to solidify the middle of the line and protect quarterback Jared Goff. Mays' versatility and strong pass protection skills make him an attractive option for a Lions team focused on building a physical, disciplined offensive line.

The details

Mays was a highly touted five-star recruit out of Knoxville, Tennessee, who played at both Georgia and Tennessee in college. He earned Second-Team All-SEC honors in 2021 with the Volunteers. Scouts praise Mays' size, strength, and ability to play multiple positions along the offensive line. While he has room to improve in areas like pad level and athleticism, Mays' 2025 season with the Carolina Panthers, where he did not allow a single sack, demonstrates his potential as a reliable pass protector.

  • Mays was selected by the Carolina Panthers in the sixth round of the 2022 NFL Draft.
  • In 2025, Mays started 12 games at center for the Panthers.

The players

Cade Mays

A former five-star offensive line recruit who played at both Georgia and Tennessee, Mays has experience starting at multiple positions along the offensive line and is expected to compete for the Lions' starting center job.

Frank Ragnow

The Lions' longtime Pro Bowl center who retired prior to the 2025 season, leaving a void in the middle of Detroit's offensive line.

Jared Goff

The Lions' starting quarterback, who will benefit from the stability and pass protection that Mays can provide along the offensive line.

Brad Holmes

The Lions' general manager, who has prioritized building depth and competition along the offensive line this offseason.

Dan Campbell

The Lions' head coach, who has emphasized the importance of a physical, disciplined offensive line as part of the team's identity.

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What they’re saying

“Cade Mays gives us another experienced option to compete for the starting center job and provide depth along the offensive line. His size, strength, and versatility make him an attractive addition as we continue to build a physical, disciplined unit up front.”

— Brad Holmes, General Manager, Detroit Lions (Detroit Sports Nation)

What’s next

The Lions will continue to evaluate Mays and Tate Ratledge, another young offensive lineman, as potential options to replace Frank Ragnow at center during the team's offseason program and training camp.

The takeaway

The addition of Cade Mays represents the Lions' ongoing commitment to rebuilding their offensive line into one of the league's most formidable units. His combination of size, experience, and pass protection skills make him an intriguing option to solidify the middle of Detroit's offensive front and protect quarterback Jared Goff.