Former Lions FB: Let’s Remember ‘Scary’ Run Brad Holmes Has Had
As the NFL enters its 2025 offseason, few general managers in the league have garnered as much attention, respect, and optimism as Detroit Lions GM Brad Holmes. It’s easy to forget that just a few years ago, the Lions were mired in mediocrity, struggling to find a true identity as a team, and regularly falling short of playoff contention. However, under the leadership of Holmes, the franchise has undergone a massive transformation, one that is starting to pay significant dividends.
Holmes’ tenure, marked by aggressive yet calculated moves, has brought about a renewed sense of hope in Detroit, and the Lions are no longer seen as the perennial underdogs they once were. His strategic vision, focus on both short-term competitiveness and long-term sustainability, and sharp draft acumen have led to one of the most successful stretches in recent Lions history. But as with any successful executive, there’s a level of caution that comes with change—and that caution has come in the form of one particular offseason that may go down as one of the most pivotal in recent Lions history.
This piece explores Brad Holmes’ significant role in reshaping the Detroit Lions and why his “scary” run of moves should be remembered as one of the most important factors in the team’s future success. It will dive into the moves that Holmes has made over the past seasons, the culture shift that he’s instilled, and the undeniable impact he’s had in elevating a historically underperforming franchise.
Holmes’ Impact: A Refreshed Team Identity
When Brad Holmes was hired as the Detroit Lions’ general manager in 2021, it was widely seen as a new chapter in the team’s rebuilding project. Holmes had previously spent years with the Los Angeles Rams, working in a scouting capacity that played a major role in building a team capable of winning a Super Bowl. Now, tasked with leading the Lions into a new era, Holmes wasted little time making his mark on the franchise.
In his first two seasons, Holmes demonstrated his ability to build a team with a mixture of free-agent signings, trades, and most notably, drafting. His approach was a far cry from the Lions’ previous attempts to rapidly accelerate their rebuilding process. Holmes adopted a philosophy rooted in patience, prioritizing long-term success over short-term glitz. As a result, the team’s culture started to shift, emphasizing toughness, resilience, and the development of young talent.
Holmes was clear from the start that he wanted to build the team from the inside out, focusing on the trenches—offensive and defensive lines. He understood that success in the NFL often begins with strong lines of scrimmage, and his investments in these areas laid the foundation for the Lions’ success. Holmes’ strategy didn’t just build a team; it created a culture that balanced youth, talent, and experience, making the Lions competitive for the first time in years.
Brad Holmes’ Drafting: The Cornerstone of Detroit’s Resurgence
It’s impossible to discuss Brad Holmes without acknowledging the impact of his draft selections, which have been instrumental in the Lions’ rise in the NFC. Holmes has proven to be one of the best evaluators of talent in the league, and his draft strategy has given the Lions a new identity—one that revolves around cultivating top-tier, homegrown talent.
2021 Draft: A Building Block for the Future
In Holmes’ first draft as GM, he made one of the boldest moves in recent Lions history by selecting Penei Sewell, an offensive tackle, with the 7th overall pick. In hindsight, this pick was a masterstroke. Sewell has become the foundation of Detroit’s offensive line, a dominant force who can anchor the line for the next decade. His selection also highlighted Holmes’ commitment to building from the trenches and setting up quarterback Jared Goff for success.
Holmes also hit on a number of other key selections, including wide receiver Amon-Ra St. Brown, who has turned into one of the most reliable and dynamic wideouts for the team. St. Brown’s emergence as a legitimate No. 1 receiver has provided Goff with a dependable target, and his ability to move the chains in clutch situations has become invaluable to the Lions’ offense.
In that same draft, the Lions also snagged linebacker Derrick Barnes, a player who has shown flashes of potential and could evolve into a key piece of Detroit’s defense moving forward.
2022 Draft: Cornerstone Pieces in the Secondary
The 2022 NFL Draft may go down as one of Brad Holmes’ finest moments as a general manager. With the 2nd overall pick, he selected edge rusher Aidan Hutchinson, the Michigan product who was the consensus top defensive player available. Hutchinson had a breakout rookie season, quickly establishing himself as a force on the defensive line. His pass-rushing ability, motor, and leadership on the field have made him the centerpiece of the Lions’ defense.
Holmes also addressed the secondary in 2022, adding cornerback Jeff Okudah, a former third overall pick, in a trade that helped bolster the team’s coverage unit. Okudah, under the guidance of defensive coordinator Aaron Glenn, has shown signs of returning to the form that made him a top draft pick, becoming one of the more reliable cornerbacks in the league.
The 2022 draft also saw Holmes bring in running back Jameson Williams, a talented deep threat who has the potential to become one of the most dangerous wideouts in the league if he stays healthy. Williams’ skill set provides Detroit with an explosive playmaker that forces opposing defenses to adjust their schemes, opening up opportunities for other players to shine.
2023 Draft: Continued Growth and Depth
As the Lions look toward 2023, Holmes continued to make excellent picks to help solidify his vision. The selection of Jahmyr Gibbs, the running back from Alabama, added another dynamic weapon to the Lions’ already potent offense. Gibbs’ dual-threat ability as a rusher and a receiver out of the backfield makes him a matchup nightmare for opposing defenses.
Holmes also made several key selections to add depth to the defensive line, linebacker corps, and secondary. His ability to target under-the-radar talent and turn them into contributors is a testament to his keen eye for talent and his ability to develop players in his system. Through smart selections, Holmes has made the Lions not only a more competitive team but one that will be built for sustained success.
Brad Holmes’ Free Agency Moves: Strategic and Calculated
In addition to his success in the draft, Brad Holmes has also made several key moves in free agency to supplement his young roster and bring in experienced players who can help the team immediately.
One of the most notable free-agent signings was cornerback Desmond King, who brought added leadership to the secondary and proved to be an excellent mentor for younger players. King’s ability to cover both inside and outside receivers gave the Lions defense flexibility and ensured they had a veteran presence in the back end.
Holmes has also made shrewd moves to bolster the offensive line and running back position. His signing of veteran players like David Montgomery in 2023 provided a steady, experienced hand for the Lions’ ground game, helping to balance out their offensive attack. Holmes also made savvy trades, including a trade for veteran linebacker Alex Anzalone, whose leadership and familiarity with the system helped strengthen the linebacker corps.
Holmes’ free-agent acquisitions have been largely focused on building depth and filling specific needs rather than splashy signings. His calculated approach, prioritizing long-term value over short-term wins, has been one of the cornerstones of his success.
The Culture Shift: Brad Holmes’ Leadership
While drafting and free agency are often what make headlines, Brad Holmes’ leadership style has been just as important in changing the culture of the Detroit Lions. Holmes has instilled a sense of accountability, discipline, and consistency that was sorely lacking in years past.
Under his leadership, the Lions have become one of the most balanced and resilient teams in the NFL. Their ability to bounce back from adversity, stay composed in tight situations, and stick to their game plan has been a hallmark of their success. Holmes has created an atmosphere where players feel both valued and challenged to perform at their highest level. It’s no longer just about talent; it’s about building a winning mentality from the top down.
Holmes’ relationship with head coach Dan Campbell has also played a significant role in the team’s success. The two have worked seamlessly together, with Holmes providing Campbell with the resources and pieces necessary to build a competitive team. Campbell, in turn, has been able to foster a strong locker room atmosphere, and the chemistry between the coaching staff and front office has been a driving force behind the team’s rise.
Brad Holmes’ ‘Scary’ Run: A Look Ahead
As the Detroit Lions enter 2025, Brad Holmes’ body of work has set them up for sustained success. The team’s rise from mediocrity to playoff contention has been impressive, and the talent Holmes has cultivated through the draft, free agency, and savvy trades has put the team in position to compete for the NFC North title in the near future.
What makes Holmes’ run “scary” is the sense that the Lions’ trajectory is still upward. With a young, dynamic roster and a general manager who knows how to build through the draft and free agency, the future is bright for Detroit. Holmes has reshaped the Lions from a team on the outside looking in to one that is now a force to be reckoned with in the NFC.
As the Lions continue to climb, it’s clear that Brad Holmes has set a foundation for the team that will be hard to disrupt. His moves in both the draft and free agency have been strategic and well-executed, positioning the Lions for future success. Whether through further additions to the roster, development of young players, or continued leadership, Brad Holmes is a general manager to be remembered—and one who will play a major role in defining the future of the Detroit Lions.