GM of the Lions Holmes predicts the team will have multiple opportunities to contend for the Super Bowl.
Detroit Lions general manager Brad Holmes concluded the season with reflections on the team’s NFC championship game and outlined his vision for the franchise’s future. Speaking for over 11 minutes, he emphasized that the Lions’ success was not a one-time, magical journey but a result of intentional planning.
Holmes addressed perceptions that the Lions’ achievements were unexpected, countering that it was precisely what was anticipated. Despite the disappointment of falling short in the NFC championship game, he emphasized that the season’s success was not luck but a realization of the team’s expectations.
Preseason favorites to win the NFC North, the Lions lived up to the hype, securing their first division title in three decades. Although they faced a setback in the conference title game, losing with a 17-point halftime lead, Holmes acknowledged the disappointment but highlighted the significant accomplishments of the season.
The Lions’ success was attributed in part to Holmes’ strategic draft selections over the past three years, notably picking offensive tackle Penei Sewell at No. 7 and receiver Amon-Ra St. Brown at No. 112 in the 2021 draft. Both players earned spots on The Associated Press All-Pro team three years later.
Holmes defended his draft choices, emphasizing the importance of evaluating drafts after the season, not immediately afterward. He highlighted the skepticism surrounding their selections, particularly the decision to pick Sewell instead of a quarterback and waiting until the fourth round for a wide receiver.
As the offseason approaches, the Lions, like all NFL teams, will undergo changes through free agency, trades, and the draft. Decisions must be made regarding re-signing players such as Jonah Jackson, Graham Glasgow, and C.J. Gardner-Johnson, along with potential additions and departures.
Despite the expected changes, the Lions will retain offensive coordinator Ben Johnson and defensive coordinator Aaron Glenn, both of whom were sought after by other teams. Holmes faces upcoming decisions that will shape the team’s composition for the next season.
