The Detroit Lions wasted no time addressing the trenches in free agency. Detroit added center Cade Mays and tackle Larry Borom, two under-the-radar linemen who could play key roles in reshaping the Lions’ offensive line heading into the 2026 season.
The Detroit Lions made a pair of moves during the first two days of the NFL’s legal tampering period, addressing depth along the offensive line. Detroit agreed to a three-year, $25 million deal with center Cade Mays and also signed offensive tackle Larry Broom to a contract that has not yet been officially reported but is expected to be a short-term, low-cost deal.
While neither signing qualifies as a blockbuster move, both additions provide valuable depth and flexibility to an offensive line that recently lost veteran pieces. Let’s take a closer look at what the Lions are getting in both players.
Cade Mays, Center
Mays arrives in Detroit after spending time with the Carolina Panthers and New York Giants. At 26 years old, the 6-foot-6, 325-pound center brings size, versatility and solid pass protection ability to the interior of the offensive line.
According to Pro Football Focus, Mays posted a 62.4 overall grade during the 2025 season, ranking 24th among 40 graded centers. His run-blocking grade came in at 58.4 (33rd), while his pass-blocking grade of 69.4 ranked 13th among centers.
One of the most encouraging parts of Mays’ profile is his ability to protect the quarterback. Across 726 snaps in 2025 — the 29th most among centers — Mays allowed zero sacks. He committed just two penalties during the season, another positive sign of discipline and reliability.
Breaking down his workload further, Mays played 429 pass-blocking snaps and 297 run-blocking snaps. In pass protection, he allowed just three quarterback hits (21st among centers) and 11 total pressures (ninth). Those numbers suggest that while he may not be an elite run blocker, he holds up well in the passing game — an important trait for a Lions offense that relies heavily on its offensive line to keep the pocket clean.
Mays actually graded even better in a smaller role during the 2024 season. That year he posted a 66.1 overall grade, including a 66.9 run-blocking grade and an impressive 74.9 pass-blocking grade that ranked sixth among centers.
Across his career, Mays has played 1,706 snaps and allowed just four sacks. He has also surrendered six quarterback hits and 42 total pressures during that span. Those numbers reinforce the idea that Detroit is adding a dependable interior lineman who can step in and play meaningful snaps if needed.
Given the Lions’ emphasis on building strong offensive lines under general manager Brad Holmes and head coach Dan Campbell, Mays fits the profile of a player who could thrive in Detroit’s system.
Larry Borom, Offensive Tackle
The Lions also added offensive tackle Larry Borom, another 26-year-old lineman who provides depth at the tackle position. Borom stands 6-foot-5 and weighs 333 pounds, fitting right in with the Lions’ preference for large, physical offensive linemen. Detroit’s average offensive line height sits around 6-foot-5, so Borom’s size aligns well with the rest of the unit.
During the 2025 season, Borom posted a 60.7 overall PFF grade. His pass-blocking grade was a solid 67.1, while his run-blocking grade came in lower at 54.4. Borom played 664 total snaps, committing five penalties and allowing two sacks.
Most of Borom’s snaps came at right tackle. That usage has sparked some speculation that Detroit could consider sliding star tackle Penei Sewell to the left side, though the Lions could also simply view Borom as depth behind their starters.
Over the course of his career, Borom has played 2,565 snaps. During that time he has allowed 22 sacks and committed 21 penalties. Those numbers suggest he has had his share of struggles, but they also reflect a player with meaningful starting experience in the NFL.
While Borom may not project as a long-term starter in Detroit, he brings something every contender needs: experienced offensive line depth. Injuries along the offensive line are common throughout an NFL season, and having a veteran who can step in at tackle is valuable.
Borom’s presence also gives the Lions flexibility as they continue to evaluate their roster. Detroit could still look to add another offensive lineman through the draft, especially with the team potentially seeking a long-term option at tackle. If that happens, Borom could serve as a bridge player or a swing tackle capable of filling in when needed.
Final Thoughts
Neither signing will dominate headlines, but both moves make sense for a team trying to maintain one of the league’s better offensive lines. Mays provides reliable depth at center with strong pass protection metrics, while Borom adds size and experience at tackle.
With free agency still ongoing and the NFL Draft approaching, these additions could simply be the first steps in Detroit’s effort to rebuild and reinforce its offensive line for the 2026 season.