Lions Get Another Big Injury Boost as Cade Mays Nears Return to Practice
The Detroit Lions have received another encouraging injury update as they prepare for Sunday’s matchup against the Arizona Cardinals.
After head coach Dan Campbell revealed that Brian Branch could return to practice this week, he has now provided a similar update on starting center Cade Mays.
Speaking to 97.1 The Ticket on Tuesday, Campbell said Mays is doing well and is currently on the same recovery plan as Branch.
“He’s doing great,” Campbell said. “He and Branch are on the same plan right now.”
Campbell added that the Lions are waiting for the final medical clearance before both players can return to practice.
Mays could strengthen the offensive line
Mays suffered a wrist fracture early in training camp, shortly after Detroit gave him a three-year, $25 million contract to take over at center.
His return would provide another boost to an offensive line that has performed reasonably well but has also been inconsistent at times.
Detroit has allowed just eight sacks through four games, while averaging 4.2 yards per carry on the ground.
In Mays’ absence, Juice Scruggs has stepped in at center and performed admirably. However, Mays is expected to reclaim the starting job once he’s fully ready.
Campbell has also suggested that Scruggs could be considered for a role at left guard when Mays returns, potentially giving Detroit another option along the offensive line.
Practice doesn’t guarantee a Sunday return
While Lions fans may be excited to see both Mays and Branch potentially return to practice, Campbell made it clear that neither player is guaranteed to suit up against Arizona.
Once they return to practice, the Lions will have a 21-day evaluation window to determine when each player is ready to be activated.
Detroit could therefore take a cautious approach with both players rather than rushing them back.
Still, getting Mays and Branch back on the practice field would be a significant step forward for a Lions team dealing with injuries on both sides of the football.
After falling to 2-2 following Sunday’s loss to Carolina, Detroit will be looking to bounce back against the Cardinals.
And if Mays and Branch continue progressing as expected, the Lions could soon be getting two important pieces back at exactly the right time.
