Cade Mays played college football at Georgia and Tennessee before being drafted by the Carolina Panthers in the sixth round of the 2022 NFL Draft. Over four seasons with the Panthers, he started 27 games and played a total of 52 games, showcasing his versatility across all five offensive line positions.
Last season, Mays started 12 games for the Panthers and took 433 snaps at guard, demonstrating his capability as a reliable player on the offensive line. His experience includes playing offensive tackle full-time during his final year at Tennessee in 2021.
Breaking Development
On March 9, 2026, Cade Mays signed a three-year, $25 million deal with the Detroit Lions, which includes $14 million in guaranteed money. This contract positions Mays as the eighth-highest paid center in the NFL, with an average annual value of $8.3 million.
The Lions opted to sign Mays instead of moving Tate Ratledge to center, indicating their confidence in Mays’s abilities. Observers noted that Mays was viewed favorably as a pass blocker when lined up at center, which likely influenced the Lions’ decision.
Furthermore, it was noted that “Mays proved capable of manning the position in 12 starts for the Carolina Panthers last year,” reinforcing the Lions’ choice to bring him on board.
As Mays joins the Lions, he is expected to solidify the offensive line and contribute significantly to the team’s performance in the upcoming season. Details remain unconfirmed regarding how the Lions will integrate him into their existing lineup, but his experience and skills suggest a positive impact on the team’s offensive strategy.