Detroit Lions place Cade Mays on injured reserve to start regular season

The Detroit Lions placed center Cade Mays on injured reserve, sidelining him for at least the first four games of the 2026 season. Head coach Dan Campbell indicated the move stems from a wrist injury that will require significant recovery time. While initial reports suggested a timeline of eight to 10 weeks, the current designation allows for a potential return as early as Week 5. The team holds a bye in Week 6, which may influence the decision on when he resumes active status. In his absence, the Lions have slated Juice Scruggs to start at center for the Week 1 opener. Scruggs joined the roster following an offseason trade with the Houston Texans.

• 1:21 AMYahoo Sports — Cade Mays lands on IR to start season; explaining when he can return