Cade Mays Returns to Practice to Boost Lions Offensive Line

Detroit Lions center Cade Mays has returned to practice after spending time on the Reserve/Injured list following a wrist injury in training camp that required surgery, the Detroit Lions reported. His return provides a welcome boost to an offensive line that has played inconsistently through the first four games of the season.

Returning Center Adds Depth to Lions Offensive Line

Detroit has allowed just eight sacks through the first four games, but the team ranks 20th in the league in rushing at 102.0 yards per game. Lions pass game specialist David Shaw addressed the return of the center during practice.

I’m excited to get him back because we think he has a chance to be very, very good and is a good fit for us. As much as anything it adds depth to our offensive line, which we’ve been banged up the last couple of games. Getting him back and whenever he’s ready to get back on the field (on gamedays) is great. But Juice (Scruggs) has played well for us as well and one thing I know for sure is if there’s any place you need depth it’s the offensive line.

David Shaw

Defensive Challenges Against Arizona

Detroit’s defense has allowed tight ends to catch 37 passes for 407 yards and six touchdowns through the first four contests of the season. Cardinals All-Pro tight end Trey McBride leads Arizona with 33 receptions and 45 targets, presenting a difficult matchup for the Lions.

Lions coach Dan Campbell described the current generation of tight ends as big skill players who possess the ability to run, separate, make tough catches, and gain yards after catch utilizing a large catch radius.

They’re going to give this guy the ball because he can make plays with the ball in his hand and he’s tough. He’s going to get his targets and we’re going to have our hands full.

Dan Campbell