What are the expectations for the Detroit Lions' new-look offensive line?
With the addition of Cade Mays in free agency, in addition to the drafting of Blake Miller and the switching of Penei Sewell over to the left side of the line, it feels safe to say that the expectation is simply "being better than 2025."
Even that simple step would be a huge improvement upon the Lions' O-line presence from last year, where they allowed 38 sacks on Jared Goff. Despite this, he still threw for 34 touchdowns and just eight interceptions, so you can only imagine what he could've cooked up given some legitimate help up front.
Goff is clearly excited for that in 2026 given his recent comments on Mays' addition to the line, and what he's seen so far from the center in OTAs.
"You know, we haven't had much time yet, but we will. We'll do some dinners with the O-line and whatnot. Yeah, I intend to be intentional about building that relationship with him. But, he's such an easy guy to get along with. He's done a hell of a job so far. It's not an easy offense to just step into and have to lead the charge in some ways up front, but he's done a great job."
Goff seems ready to embrace new protection ahead of 2026 season
Goff could use some help up front after the Lions' 2025 season ended in disappointment. While he might not have been directly effected by the line's poor play, the lack of production from their running back room because of the line meant that a lot rested on Goff's arm. And, that's just not a balanced enough offense to run if you're looking to defeat your opponent by a thousand cuts.
The Lions' rushing game, which should've been a strength given Jahmyr Gibbs and David Montgomery existing on the roster, ended up sitting right in the middle of the pack tw
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Mays comes into the fold following a very promising season with the Carolina Panthers in which he gained some meaningful postseason experience through one Wild Card game against the Los Angeles Rams. On the year, he allowed zero sacks, 11 total pressures, and just two penalties through 726 snaps at center.
Detroit is certainly hoping that Mays ends up being one of the best bargain signings from this past free agency, especially amid a pricier class that featured Tyler Linderbaum and Tyler Biadasz. With his production at Carolina, coupled with the opportunity to start right away as the Lions' main center, there's a great chance that he helps shape one of the best protection plans in the NFL.
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