Former Tennessee Vols offensive lineman Cade Mays has learned his fate with the Carolina Panthers, marking a pivotal moment in his young NFL career. Mays, a versatile and physically imposing lineman, entered the league with high expectations after a standout collegiate career that saw him play at both Georgia and Tennessee. His journey to the Panthers was anything but straightforward, but his determination and skill have kept him in the mix for a significant role in the team’s future.
Mays was selected by the Panthers in the sixth round of the 2022 NFL Draft, a pick that many analysts considered a steal given his experience and adaptability. Standing at 6-foot-6 and weighing over 320 pounds, Mays possesses the ideal frame for an NFL offensive lineman. What makes him particularly valuable, however, is his ability to play multiple positions along the line. During his college career, he saw action at tackle, guard, and even center, showcasing his football IQ and willingness to do whatever was needed for his team.
The Panthers, in recent years, have struggled to establish consistency along their offensive line, a weakness that has hindered their offensive production. Injuries and underperformance have plagued the unit, making depth and versatility crucial. Mays entered training camp this year with an opportunity to compete for a starting job, or at the very least, solidify himself as a reliable backup who could step in at multiple spots if called upon.
Throughout the preseason, Mays saw significant playing time, rotating between guard and tackle. His performances were a mixed bag—flashes of dominance in the run game paired with occasional struggles in pass protection against elite speed rushers. However, his toughness and work ethic stood out, earning praise from coaches and teammates alike. Panthers offensive line coach James Campen was particularly vocal about Mays’ progress, noting his improved footwork and understanding of NFL-level blocking schemes.
As the regular season approached, the Panthers faced difficult roster decisions. The offensive line room was crowded, with veterans and younger players all vying for limited spots. Mays’ versatility gave him an edge, but the team also had to weigh his upside against more experienced options. When final cuts were made, Mays survived the roster trim, securing his place on the 53-man squad. While he may not be an immediate starter, his ability to fill in at multiple positions makes him an invaluable depth piece for a team that has dealt with its fair share of injuries up front.
For Mays, making the roster is just the first step. The real challenge now is carving out a larger role for himself as the season progresses. The Panthers’ offensive line is far from settled, and if injuries or poor performance create openings, Mays must be ready to step in and prove he belongs. His development will be crucial, not just for this season but for his long-term future in the league. The Panthers have shown patience with him, and if he continues to refine his technique and adapt to the speed of the NFL, he could evolve into a dependable starter in the coming years.
Beyond the X’s and O’s, Mays’ journey is a testament to perseverance. His college career was marked by adversity, including a high-profile transfer from Georgia to Tennessee, where he sought more playing time and a chance to play closer to home. His decision paid off, as he became a leader for the Vols and boosted his draft stock. Now, in the NFL, he faces another uphill battle, but his track record suggests he’s more than capable of meeting the challenge.
Panthers fans should be encouraged by Mays’ potential. While he may not be a household name yet, his skill set and work ethic give him a real chance to develop into a key contributor. The Panthers’ coaching staff has expressed confidence in his ability, and if given the opportunity, he could become a mainstay on their offensive line for years to come.
In the grand scheme of things, Mays’ story is still being written. Making the roster is an important milestone, but the ultimate goal is to establish himself as a reliable NFL lineman. For now, Panthers supporters can take solace in knowing they have a young, hungry player who is willing to do whatever it takes to help the team succeed. The road ahead won’t be easy, but if there’s one thing Cade Mays has proven throughout his football career, it’s that he’s never backed down from a challenge.
As the Panthers gear up for the season, Mays will be one to watch. Whether he’s called upon to start or serve as a backup, his presence adds much-needed depth and flexibility to an offensive line that has been a weak link in recent years. His fate with the team is now clear—he’s earned his spot. The next step is turning that opportunity into something greater. And if his past is any indication, Cade Mays is more than ready for what comes next.
