Carolina Panthers agree to terms with Cade Mays after 2022 NFL Draft
The Carolina Panthers have locked up one of their late round picks from the 2022 NFL Draft. In the sixth round, the Panthers selected former Tennessee Volunteers offensive lineman Cade Mays. Now, Mays has agreed to his rookie contract with the Panthers.
Pro Football Network’s Aaron Wilson reported on Monday afternoon that Mays and the Panthers agreed to terms and officially signed the rookie deal.
Mays was selected with the No. 199 overall pick. He began his collegiate career with the Georgia Bulldogs, gaining experience all over the offensive line as a freshman and sophomore. Mays then transferred to Tennessee, and he played a big role on the Volunteers offense. Last season, he allowed just one sack and was named to the 2021 All-SEC second team.
When he began his collegiate career, Mays was a highly touted recruit. He came in as the 23rd-rated player nationally and the third-rated offensive tackle in the 2018 class as a five-star, according to the On3 Consensus, a complete and equally weighted industry-generated average.
The Panthers were in major need of upgrades on the offensive line, and they hope that they found a versatile option in Mays. Carolina used the No. 6 overall pick on former NC State offensive lineman Ikem Ekwonu.
What the Panthers are getting in Mays
Prior to the NFL Draft, NFL.com analyst Lance Zierlein broke down Mays and his status as a prospect in this year’s class. He gave Mays a comparison of Chase Roullier, who was also a No. 199 overall pick in 2017 and has turned into a quality center for the Washington Commanders.
“Offensive line prospect with five-position experience, a broad frame and good overall strength,” wrote Zierlein. “He has good length and can play square against bigger, odd-front defenders, which is extremely valuable at center. He needs to stay under his pads and play with a wider base on a more consistent basis. However, he has drive-blocking talent and should benefit from his pass protection experience.
“Mays has the potential to become a starting center in time.”