NFL free agency is off and running, and we’re keeping track of every major signing, trade and release of the 2026 offseason, with analysis from our NFL nation reporters and grades from our experts.
The new league year begins Wednesday at 4 p.m. ET, which means free agents can be made official after that. The first round of the 2026 NFL draft begins April 23 on ESPN.
Here’s a breakdown of every 2026 NFL free agent signing by the Detroit Lions and how each will impact the upcoming season:
Detroit is signing the former Panthers center to a three-year deal.
What it means: The Lions were still recovering from Frank Ragnow’s retirement and failed return last season, but filled a major need adding Mays. His 94.3% pass block win rate ranked 20th among qualified centers last season, while allowing just one sack. Detroit still has other needs on the offensive line, especially after Taylor Decker requested a release last week, but adding Mays fills at least one hole in front of quarterback Jared Goff.
