After a revealing pre-draft press conference, Brad Holmes may have tipped his hand—hinting the Detroit Lions aren’t just preparing for the draft… they could be gearing up to make a bold, aggressive move up the board.
As the 2026 NFL Draft approaches, Detroit Lions general manager Brad Holmes offered a revealing glimpse into his mindset during a recent media session. While he didn’t tip his hand on specific prospects, several of his comments painted a clear picture of a front office that remains aggressive, flexible, and singularly focused on building a Super Bowl contender.
One answer in particular stood out. When asked whether the Lions currently have 17 players graded as first-round talents, Holmes admitted the team isn’t quite there yet and still has more evaluating to do. On the surface, that may sound routine, but it subtly hints at a broader strategy. If Detroit doesn’t view enough players as true first-round values, it could signal a willingness to move up the board to secure a player they believe can make a significant impact. Holmes reinforced that idea later, stating he would absolutely consider trading up if he believed a prospect could push the team “over the top” for a Super Bowl run. It’s a philosophy Lions fans have seen before—calculated aggression when the right opportunity presents itself.
Holmes also emphasized the importance of preparation, even revealing he skipped the NFL owners meetings to remain in Detroit and focus on draft work. Typically, he attends the meetings and returns to a backlog of responsibilities. This year, however, he chose to stay put and get ahead. That decision underscores just how critical this draft is for Detroit, especially as the roster inches closer to true contention status.
In another notable shift, the Lions opted not to hold a local pro day this year. Holmes explained that the organization felt its time could be better spent elsewhere, though the team will still connect with local prospects through visits. It’s another example of Holmes and his staff constantly evaluating how to best allocate their resources—whether that’s time, scouting energy, or roster capital.
When discussing the current roster, Holmes expressed confidence in several key players. He specifically mentioned Larry Borom and DJ Wonnum as having starter-level ability, addressing questions about depth along the offensive line and edge positions. Those endorsements suggest Detroit may not feel as pressured to target those spots early in the draft, potentially opening the door to a best-player-available approach.
Holmes also touched on the future of two of the team’s young building blocks, confirming discussions have taken place regarding fifth-year options for Jahmyr Gibbs and Jack Campbell. Both players have become integral pieces of the Lions’ core, and exercising those options would be a logical step in maintaining roster continuity.
Off the field, Holmes addressed past reports involving draft prospect Rueben Bain, noting the organization has long been aware of the situation and that it does not alter their evaluation. Meanwhile, when asked about Terrion Arnold and his potential impact on draft decisions, Holmes declined to provide new information, instead referencing prior statements.
Perhaps most telling was Holmes’ response when asked if Detroit currently has a championship-level defense. His answer was measured but revealing: that is the goal, but the organization will never be satisfied. That mindset—constant evaluation, constant improvement—has become a defining trait of his tenure.
Holmes also expressed confidence in how the team navigated free agency, stating the Lions maximized their available resources. That approach places even more importance on the draft as the final piece of the offseason puzzle.
Taken together, Holmes’ comments reinforce a clear identity. The Lions are not a team content with incremental progress. Whether it’s trading up for a difference-maker, rethinking traditional processes, or doubling down on preparation, Detroit is operating with urgency—and with its eyes firmly set on a championship.