The Detroit Lions should get help at center Sunday, but Cade Mays’ expected return creates a decision that could shape how quarterback Jared Goff handles Green Bay’s pressure.
Mays is set to play after missing the start of the season with a wrist injury, yet veteran center Juice Scruggs has performed well enough that Detroit does not need to rush a change before its first division game.
Locked On Lions fill-in host Jake Riepma pointed to Detroit’s opening quarter against the Arizona Cardinals, when Goff was sacked on each of Detroit’s first three drives, as a sequence the offense cannot repeat against the Packers. Green Bay’s ability to disguise coverages and create long-yardage situations puts a premium on clean communication up front and a faster start from Goff.
Dan Campbell said Mays and safety Brian Branch (Achilles) are targeted to play Sunday, barring a setback during the week. Campbell also made clear that Mays’ return does not automatically displace Scruggs, who has filled in at center through the first five games and could remain there while Mays works back into football shape.
That makes the decision less about restoring the original plan and more about preserving the line combination that gives Goff the cleanest pocket. Mays arrived as Detroit’s intended long-term answer in the middle, but Scruggs’ early work gives the staff flexibility to use Mays at center or explore a role for Scruggs at guard and in heavier packages.
The Lions do not need to decide the position permanently this week. They do need to avoid another early stretch in which Goff is under immediate pressure, particularly against a Green Bay defense Campbell said has created problems by making quarterbacks diagnose one look before delivering another. The outcome at center could decide whether Detroit enters its division slate with an offense playing on schedule or one again trying to recover from an early hole.
Detroit opens NFC North play Sunday at Ford Field and then hosts Minnesota next week. That makes the protection plan for Goff an immediate test rather than a long-term experiment.
Lions News and Notes
– Branch is also expected to make his season debut after returning from an Achilles injury. Campbell indicated Branch will not necessarily handle a full workload immediately, but his return gives Detroit needed versatility and communication in the secondary.
– The Green Bay game is Detroit’s first division matchup of 2026. The Lions then host the Minnesota Vikings, giving the club consecutive home games against NFC North opponents coming out of its Week 6 bye.
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