In an unexpected twist in the narrative of the Detroit Lions’ rebuilding journey, General Manager Brad Holmes has recently opened up about his transition from the Lions to the Los Angeles Rams and how that decision ultimately contributed to the resurgence of the Lions’ franchise. Holmes, who served as the director of college scouting for the Rams before taking the helm in Detroit, shared his insights during a recent media session, revealing how his departure was a turning point not only for him personally but also for the Lions organization.
Holmes left the Rams in January 2021 to take over the general manager duties for the Lions, a team with a long history of struggles, instability, and disappointing seasons. His experience with the Rams, a franchise that has flourished under head coach Sean McVay, was instrumental in his vision for rebuilding the Lions. In a league where personnel decisions often dictate the success or failure of franchises, Holmes’ wisdom gained during his tenure in L.A. proved valuable as he put his stamp on a team desperately searching for direction.
“Sometimes you have to look at the bigger picture,” Holmes said. “Leaving the Rams was a personal and professional decision that I felt was necessary. But it’s fascinating to see how we took something that felt like a loss and turned it into a foundation for something greater in Detroit. In many ways, we ‘won by losing’ not just for myself but for the entire Lions organization.”
Holmes’ remarks echoed the sentiments of many in the industry who recognize that his insights and strategies have vastly improved the Lions’ fortunes since his arrival. His focus on building through the draft, developing young talent, and prioritizing character and work ethic in players has led to a turnaround in a franchise that many had written off.
Since Holmes assumed control, the Lions have gone through a remarkable transformation. After years of finishing at or near the bottom of the NFC North, they quickly began to emerge as a competitive force within the division. Holmes spearheaded high-profile draft selections, including standout players like Aidan Hutchinson, a defensive end out of Michigan, who quickly became a cornerstone of the Lions’ defensive unit.
Hutchinson’s presence alone has revitalized the Lions’ defense, providing a level of intensity and playmaking ability that had been missing for years. His addition not only strengthened the defensive line but also sent a message across the league that the Lions were serious about changing their fortunes.
Holmes emphasized the importance of his experience in L.A. during his tenure with the Rams. “Being part of a winning organization, surrounded by talented players and coaches, instilled in me the importance of consistency, discipline, and vision,” he explained. “I learned from watching how the Rams identified talent and most significantly, how they built a culture of winning.”
Much like the Rams did with their star quarterback Matthew Stafford, the Lions made a bold move by acquiring Jared Goff from Los Angeles as part of the deal that sent Stafford to the Rams. While Goff faced skepticism, Holmes recognized his potential and brought him onboard with the belief that Goff could thrive in a system with solid coaching and the right supporting cast. This decision has started to pay dividends, as Goff displayed significant growth under Holmes’ leadership and offensive coordinator Ben Johnson.
During his time with the Rams, Holmes observed how players flourished when given the confidence and opportunity to succeed. This knowledge became an integral part of the plan as he established a culture in Detroit centered around accountability and empowerment. The Lions’ improvement on and off the field is perhaps most evident in their player relationships, with a newfound camaraderie becoming apparent as the team grew closer.
Holmes also spoke about the strategic importance of building a winning atmosphere and engaged fan base. “Winning is a communal effort. It’s about creating an environment where everyone feels they’re a part of this journey,” he noted. The Lions’ fan base, often maligned during difficult years, has started to rekindle hope and enthusiasm as the team exhibits a renewed sense of purpose and direction.
As the Lions gear up for the upcoming season, the team is more equipped to compete than ever before. Holmes’ bold moves in the offseason, whether it was in the draft or free agency, have the Lions poised to become a force within the NFC. As they build upon their momentum from a promising previous season, the Lions find themselves in a favorable position to challenge their division rivals and vie for a playoff spot.
In a competitive league where many franchises have struggled to adapt and evolve, Holmes understands that leading the Lions out of the shadows of mediocrity will require continued innovation and strategic thinking. As the team progresses, the undercurrents of change that began with his departure from the Rams continue to drive the storyline of the Lions franchise.
Reflecting on his career choices, Holmes concluded, “Every decision we make can lead to uncharted territory. Sometimes, losing what appears to be a good game can pave the way for a championship. In hindsight, my move to Detroit wasn’t just about me; it was about the broader picture and commitment to building a strong foundation here in Detroit.”
As Lions fans rally around the new direction of the franchise, all eyes will be on Holmes as he continues to reshape the team into a winner. With his experience and foresight, the Lions’ future looks brighter than ever, a testament to the adage that sometimes, what seems like a loss can indeed be a profound victory.
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