With the 2025 NFL Draft just a week away, Detroit Lions general manager Brad Holmes held his annual pre-draft press conference to discuss the team’s outlook and draft philosophy.
No Trade Inquiries Yet for Pick No. 28
While late first-round picks can attract interest from teams looking to secure a player with a fifth-year option, Holmes revealed that, so far, no teams have contacted the Lions about trading for the No. 28 overall selection. Trade talks often ramp up closer to or during draft night, so there’s still time for movement.
Drafting Based on Value, Not Need
Holmes emphasized again that the Lions don’t approach the draft by targeting positions of need. Instead, the focus is on selecting the most talented players available. He used last year’s selection of cornerback Ennis Rakestraw as an example—Detroit had already added talent at the position, but Rakestraw was the highest-rated player left on their board at the time.
Holmes believes reacting to short-term needs can backfire, especially since those needs can shift due to injuries or contract situations. “You draft for the future, not just the present,” he said. He also pointed to the 2022 selection of Jameson Williams, a wide receiver recovering from injury, as another case of prioritizing long-term potential over immediate impact.
Open to Moving Up—If the Right Player Is There
Holmes confirmed that he’s open to trading up in the first round, as he did in 2022 when the Lions jumped from pick No. 32 to No. 12 for Williams. He noted, however, that such a move depends on having a trade partner willing to drop significantly. While he didn’t name specific players or targets this year, the possibility of another bold move remains on the table.
Views on the 2025 Edge Rusher Class
Without naming names, Holmes praised this year’s crop of pass rushers, echoing draft experts who have called it one of the deepest and most talented defensive line classes in recent memory. Holmes also said he feels good about the current state of Detroit’s defensive front.
Willing to Take on Another Developmental Prospect
The Lions aren’t shying away from selecting another high-upside player who might not contribute immediately. Holmes brought up offensive tackle Giovanni Manu, a fourth-round pick in 2024, who came from the University of British Columbia and spent the year inactive while adjusting to the NFL. Holmes said the team is open to taking on similar long-term projects if they believe strongly in a player’s potential.
Reflection on Draft Success and Team Collaboration
In recent years, the Lions have built a strong young core through the draft, with six players earning Pro Bowl honors under Holmes’ leadership. These include Penei Sewell (2021), Amon-Ra St. Brown (2022), Jahmyr Gibbs and Sam LaPorta (2023), and Brian Branch (2023), while Kerby Joseph earned All-Pro recognition. Holmes credited the coaching staff and the organization as a whole for developing talent and fostering growth.
Any Progress with Za’Darius Smith?
As for veteran edge rusher Za’Darius Smith, Holmes said there’s been no further communication with his camp since last month’s league meetings. However, both sides agreed to keep the lines of communication open, leaving the door slightly ajar for a potential signing.
Lessons Learned Over Four Drafts
Reflecting on his tenure, Holmes said patience and perspective have been his biggest takeaways. Rather than reacting impulsively, he now focuses on the broader goals of roster building and long-term success