Results for: Brad Holmes

Lions general manager Brad Holmes has been wearing ‘VILLAIN’ shirts to subtly jab at critics of the team’s rebuild. On Friday, he took it a step further with ‘POSITIONAL VILLAIN’ sweatshirts in the draft war room. This move comes after Holmes received criticism for selecting a running back and linebacker in the first 18 picks of last year’s draft. However, both players, Jahmyr Gibbs and Jack Campbell, went on to have standout rookie seasons, proving Holmes’ evaluations correct. Holmes defended his decision, stating that he prioritizes drafting the best players rather than focusing solely on positional value. This bold approach has paid off, with the draft class being named the league’s best and Holmes being named executive of the year.

The Lions’ bold move to select Alabama cornerback Terrion Arnold in the first round of the 2024 NFL draft electrified the Detroit crowd. Arnold, a former two-sport standout, expressed his enthusiasm for joining the team and helping them win a Super Bowl. Despite initial adversity at Alabama, Arnold emerged as one of the top cornerbacks in the nation, earning first team All-American honors. The Lions’ affinity for Alabama players continues with Arnold’s selection; he’s the third former Crimson Tide player chosen in the first two rounds of the last three drafts by Detroit.

Despite significant roster improvements under Brad Holmes, the Lions’ pass defense remains a weak point, ranking 27th overall last season. With the NFL Draft approaching, cornerback is expected to be a high priority for Detroit, which lacks a true outside cornerback. Top prospects for the Lions include Toledo’s Quinyon Mitchell, Alabama’s Terrion Arnold, Iowa’s Cooper DeJean, and Clemson’s Nate Wiggins. Day 2-3 possibilities include Missouri’s Ennis Rakestraw, Michigan’s Mike Sainristil, and Wake Forest’s Malik Mustapha. While much of the focus is on cornerbacks, the Lions also need depth at safety. With only Kerby Joseph and Melifonwu as starters and Brandon Joseph as the only other safety under contract, the Lions are likely to add more depth in the latter half of the draft.