When the Lions traded running back David Montgomery to Texas in March, Juice Scruggs was largely considered a throwback, along with the fourth-round and seventh-round picks Houston had sent to Detroit. Scruggs was a disappointment as the Texans’ second-round pick in 2023, and he was only expected to compete to make the Lions’ roster.
Instead, Scruggs will be the Lions’ starting center Sunday against the Saints.
Scruggs worked more at guard than center for most of the season, but Cade Mays, who was expected to start at center, injured his wrist a month ago. Mays is now on injured reserve and Scruggs said he is getting used to his role as the No. 1 center. 1 even if it wasn’t a role he was expected to play.
“A lot more comfortable, for sure. Things have slowed down. When I got to center at first it was kind of overwhelming, but I definitely feel more comfortable and ready to play for sure,” Scruggs said. “You just have to be ready. You never know when your number is going to be called, so you always prepare as a rookie.”
Although Scruggs played mostly guard for the Texans, he started eight games at center, so he’s not new to his position. Even if he’s new to Detroit and playing a role, few saw him playing when he arrived in the Montgomery trade.