ALLEN PARK, Mich. — The Detroit Lions are facing a setback as center Cade Mays has sustained a wrist injury during a recent training camp session. Head coach Dan Campbell confirmed that Mays will be sidelined for a "significant period of time," with sources indicating to NFL Network's Ian Rapoport that he has fractured a small bone in his wrist. This injury is expected to keep him out of action for approximately eight to ten weeks.
While Campbell refrained from providing a specific timeline for Mays' return, he lightheartedly remarked that the player would be ready in time for the playoffs. The injury comes as a disappointment, particularly since Mays had been making notable progress during training camp. "Of course, you hate it. I hate it for him because I felt like he was having a good camp and he had grown so much in our system just since spring," Campbell stated, reflecting on the impact of Mays' absence.
Injury Concerns for the Lions
In addition to Mays' injury, running back Isiah Pacheco is also dealing with an MCL sprain, which will keep him off the field for an unspecified duration. However, Campbell expressed optimism regarding Pacheco's recovery, stating that he anticipates the running back will be back in time for the Lions' season opener against the New Orleans Saints on September 13. "I'm not concerned about it," Campbell added, emphasizing his belief in Pacheco's ability to bounce back quickly.
The loss of Mays is particularly significant for the Lions, who had targeted him as a key addition during the offseason to bolster their offensive line, which struggled in the previous season. Mays, a sixth-round draft pick in 2022 from Tennessee, spent his first four seasons with the Carolina Panthers. Last season, he achieved a pass block win rate of 94.3%, ranking 20th among qualified centers, and allowed only one sack.
Next Steps for the Offensive Line
With Mays out of the lineup, the Lions are expected to explore options at the center position, including Juice Scruggs, Seth McLaughlin, and Michael Niese, as they seek to establish the most effective combination before the start of the season. "Look, we're going to find the best five," Campbell stated regarding the offensive line. "We will identify the best five and where they belong, and they'll be ready." The team is determined to solidify its lineup as they prepare for the upcoming challenges of the season.
