The Detroit Lions have taken a significant step toward strengthening their offensive line, signing former Carolina Panthers center Cade Mays to a three-year, $14 million contract in free agency, according to NFL insider Aaron Wilson.

Cade Mays Emerged as Reliable Starter in 2025

Mays showed promising development during the 2025 NFL season with Carolina. The 25-year-old lineman took over the starting center role for the first time in his career and delivered a solid performance throughout the year.

According to Pro Football Focus (PFF), Mays finished the season with a 62.4 overall grade at center. Perhaps more impressive, he did not allow a single sack while protecting Panthers quarterback Bryce Young, highlighting his reliability in pass protection.

Lions Add Starting Option at Center

While Mays still carries some risk—given that 2025 was his first full season playing center—the experiment proved encouraging for Carolina and likely convinced Detroit he can develop into a long-term solution.

The signing also addresses a key need for the Lions after the team released veteran offensive lineman Graham Glasgow earlier this offseason. Detroit had reportedly been considering moving Tate Ratledge from guard to center to fill the position.

With Mays now in the mix, the Lions gain more than just depth at the position. He enters the 2026 season as a legitimate contender for the starting center role, potentially anchoring the middle of Detroit’s offensive line for years to come.