Brad Holmes, the general manager of the Detroit Lions, has played a pivotal role in transforming the team into one of the NFL’s most promising organizations. His approach to the draft and roster-building has been a crucial part of this shift. By embracing a data-driven, thoughtful, and long-term strategy, Holmes has helped the Lions build one of the most talented and balanced teams in the league, making them contenders once again after years of mediocrity.
The State of the Lions Before Brad Holmes
Before Brad Holmes took over as general manager in 2021, the Detroit Lions had been a franchise mired in frustration. Despite having some talented players, the team had never been able to consistently compete at a high level. For decades, the Lions struggled with a lack of success, characterized by poor draft decisions, inconsistent coaching, and a lack of identity. From failed first-round picks to questionable trades, the Lions often found themselves behind the eight ball when it came to roster building.
In particular, the franchise had been hampered by a poor draft record, where too many high-profile selections failed to pan out. While there were some successes—such as quarterback Matthew Stafford (2009) and linebacker DeAndre Levy (2009)—the Lions struggled to find sustained success through the draft. The team would routinely miss on top picks or fail to develop players in critical positions. This left the franchise stuck in mediocrity for many years.
When Brad Holmes was hired as the general manager in January 2021, he inherited a team with several holes, including a lack of playmakers on both sides of the ball. Holmes had worked as the director of college scouting for the Los Angeles Rams and had seen firsthand how a smart, patient approach to the draft could help build a contender. His task was clear: rebuild the Lions from the ground up.
Holmes’ Philosophy: Building Through the Draft
Holmes’ approach to team building starts with a commitment to the draft. Unlike many NFL teams that rely heavily on free agency or trades to improve, Holmes has emphasized building through the draft. This philosophy is rooted in the idea that sustainable success in the NFL is best achieved by developing young, homegrown talent rather than relying on quick fixes. Under Holmes, the Lions have focused on drafting players who fit their system, have high upside, and possess strong character traits.
One of the early moves that defined Holmes’ tenure was his decision to prioritize building a solid foundation. In his first draft in 2021, Holmes selected offensive tackle Penei Sewell with the seventh overall pick. Sewell, widely regarded as one of the top prospects in the draft, was an immediate plug-and-play starter who could anchor the offensive line for years to come. While many fans had hoped the Lions would take a quarterback to replace Stafford, Holmes stuck with his plan to build around the trenches. The decision to take Sewell instead of a quarterback like Justin Fields or Mac Jones showed Holmes’ willingness to stay patient and focus on the long-term health of the roster.
The Lions also had a strong showing in the 2021 draft by selecting key players who would quickly contribute to the team. Wide receiver Amon-Ra St. Brown, drafted in the fourth round, emerged as one of the best rookie receivers of his class, providing quarterback Jared Goff with a reliable weapon. Holmes’ ability to identify high-value players in the later rounds has been a key factor in his success as a general manager.
Holmes’ draft strategy is rooted in a deep understanding of positional value and the importance of building a strong, balanced roster. In addition to Sewell and St. Brown, the 2021 draft also saw the Lions take a shot at addressing their defense, selecting defensive end Levi Onwuzurike, linebacker Jalen Reeves-Maybin, and cornerback Ifeatu Melifonwu. By addressing both sides of the ball, Holmes ensured that the team would be competitive across all phases of the game.
Changing the Lions’ Culture: The Importance of Character
Beyond the technical aspects of scouting and drafting, Brad Holmes has also worked to change the culture within the Detroit Lions’ organization. Holmes recognizes that talent is only part of the equation for building a successful NFL team. In today’s league, it’s equally important to bring in players who are not only physically gifted but also have the mental and emotional resilience needed to succeed in a high-pressure environment.
Holmes’ emphasis on character has been evident throughout his time in Detroit. When evaluating draft prospects, Holmes places a strong emphasis on finding players who are known for their work ethic, leadership, and commitment to the team. This has meant that the Lions have avoided drafting players with known character issues or off-the-field concerns. By building a locker room full of professionals who prioritize winning and team success, Holmes has set a new tone for the Lions’ organization.
The results have been evident on the field. Players like Sewell, St. Brown, and linebacker Malcolm Rodriguez quickly established themselves as key contributors to the team. Their success has been driven not only by their on-field talent but also by their positive attitudes, professionalism, and willingness to work together to build something special in Detroit.
Holmes’ Aggressive Yet Strategic Approach to Free Agency
While Holmes is known for his preference for drafting talent, he has not ignored the importance of free agency. His approach to free agency is measured, focused on targeting the right players to fill specific needs without overcommitting to high-priced, aging stars. Holmes has worked to avoid the common NFL mistake of over-spending in free agency and instead has focused on making smart, calculated moves that complement his long-term vision.
For example, the Lions made a strategic move in free agency by signing linebacker Alex Anzalone, who had a solid track record with the New Orleans Saints. Anzalone’s addition brought leadership and a solid veteran presence to the linebacker corps, helping elevate the play of young players like Rodriguez. Similarly, the signing of defensive lineman Michael Brockers, although not flashy, was another example of Holmes bringing in experienced players to fill roles and add depth.
This approach has allowed the Lions to avoid the pitfalls of cap mismanagement while continuing to build a competitive roster. By targeting undervalued players who fit the system and culture, Holmes has been able to strengthen the team without breaking the bank.
Success in the 2022 and 2023 Drafts
After a successful 2021 draft, Brad Holmes continued to excel in 2022 and 2023, further cementing his reputation as one of the league’s most capable general managers.
In 2022, the Lions were able to secure defensive playmakers who would immediately bolster their defense. With the second overall pick, Holmes selected edge rusher Aidan Hutchinson, a local product who had been a dominant force at Michigan. Hutchinson quickly became a cornerstone of the defense and was a game-changer for the Lions. His ability to disrupt opposing quarterbacks and make an impact on the line of scrimmage has been a key factor in the Lions’ resurgence.
Alongside Hutchinson, the Lions drafted cornerback Kerby Joseph, safety James Houston, and defensive tackle Josh Paschal, further adding to their defensive depth. Joseph, in particular, stood out in his rookie season, quickly becoming a reliable contributor in the secondary.
The 2023 draft continued this trend, with the Lions selecting playmakers like running back Jahmyr Gibbs and linebacker Jack Campbell, who are expected to make an immediate impact. These selections showed that Holmes was committed to further improving the roster and ensuring the team remained competitive.
Developing Talent and Building Depth
One of the key changes that Brad Holmes has implemented is a focus on developing talent over time. While some NFL teams are quick to discard players who don’t contribute immediately, Holmes has been patient, giving his draft picks the opportunity to grow and develop within the system. This is particularly evident with players like St. Brown, who was drafted in the fourth round but quickly became one of the team’s most reliable wide receivers. Holmes and his staff have shown a commitment to developing young players and giving them the resources and coaching they need to succeed.
Moreover, Holmes has emphasized the importance of building depth across the roster. The Lions are no longer a team that relies on a few superstars to carry the weight of the season. Instead, the team is built to sustain success with depth at every position. This approach is crucial in the NFL, where injuries are inevitable, and having a roster full of capable players is necessary to compete at a high level over the course of a long season.
Looking to the Future: The Lions as Super Bowl Contenders
Under Brad Holmes, the Detroit Lions have become one of the most well-rounded and exciting teams in the NFL. By building a team through smart, strategic draft decisions, Holmes has set the foundation for sustained success. The team’s recent performance suggests that the Lions are ready to be more than just a competitive team—they are poised to be legitimate Super Bowl contenders in the near future.
With a strong roster that includes franchise cornerstones like Sewell, Hutchinson, and St. Brown, the Lions are in a prime position to continue building and developing under Holmes’ leadership. As the team continues to add pieces to complement their young stars, the future looks bright in Detroit. Brad Holmes has shown that, with the right approach to the draft, roster building, and player development, a franchise can go from perennial disappointment to legitimate contender.
In the end, Brad Holmes has taken the Detroit Lions from a team mired in mediocrity to one of the NFL’s most promising teams. Through smart draft decisions, a commitment to character, and a focus on long-term sustainability, Holmes has built the foundation for a successful future. If the Lions continue on their current trajectory, they could soon be competing for championships—something that seemed nearly impossible just a few years ago.
