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Draft Information by: Years, Teams, Positions

Cade Mays (Tennessee) - 2022 NFL Draft Pick #199 by CAR

What The Experts Thought Before The Draft

Pre-Draft Analysis for Cade Mays (Tennessee)

Position: Offensive Lineman

Height: 6'5"

Weight: 318 lbs

Overview

Cade Mays was a highly regarded offensive lineman coming out of the University of Tennessee. Known for his versatility, Mays played both guard and tackle during his college career, showcasing his ability to adapt to various positions along the offensive line. His physical attributes, combined with his experience, made him a compelling prospect for NFL teams looking to bolster their offensive front.

Strengths

  • Versatility: Mays has experience playing multiple positions on the offensive line, which is a valuable asset for any team.
  • Physicality: He possesses a powerful frame and plays with a strong, aggressive style, excelling in both run blocking and pass protection.
  • Footwork: Mays demonstrates good footwork and balance, allowing him to anchor against powerful defenders and maintain leverage.
  • Work Ethic: Coaches have praised Mays for his commitment to improvement and his willingness to learn, making him a solid candidate for development at the next level.

Weaknesses

  • Injury History: Mays has dealt with injuries during his college career, which raises concerns about his durability moving forward.
  • Consistency: At times, Mays has shown inconsistency in his technique, particularly in his hand placement and pad level.
  • Experience Against Top Competition: While he faced strong opponents in the SEC, there are questions about how he will fare against elite NFL pass rushers.

Overall Assessment

Cade Mays entered the 2022 NFL Draft as a player with significant upside and the potential to contribute early in his career. His combination of size, strength, and versatility made him an attractive option for teams looking to enhance their offensive line depth. However, teams needed to weigh his injury history and consistency against his potential. Mays was projected to be selected in the mid to late rounds, with the possibility of becoming a starter in the right system.