Holmes' 5 Worst Lions Picks: A Deep Dive

Brad Holmes Detroit Lions draft picks: A mixed bag of hits and misses

Brad Holmes has made significant strides in transforming the Detroit Lions into contenders since his appointment as GM in 2021. However, no draft is perfect, and today we delve into his five most disappointing picks.

Third-round quarterback Hendon Hooker from 2023 stands out as the top miss. Despite his potential, Hooker failed to secure backup trust or starter hype, was cut after a lackluster 2025 preseason, and barely played before moving to other teams.

Fourth-round tackle Gio Manu from 2024, standing at six-foot-seven and three hundred fifty pounds, is still a work in progress with no clear starting path as the Lions scramble for tackles.

Cornerback Terrion Arnold, the 24th overall pick in 2024, led the team in penalties as a rookie and struggled even after improving in 2025. Off-field drama tied to a Florida kidnapping probe further complicates his situation, marking him as Holmes weakest first-rounder so far.

Third-round defensive tackle Brodric Martin from 2023 barely saw action, playing in just five games and recording four tackles over two years before being waived.

First-round interior lineman Tyleik Williams at 28th overall in 2025 finished third in impact from his class, behind later picks, and only started ten games without injury excuses. Defensive back issues also sidelined Arnold late in the season, hurting the secondary.

Despite these misses, Holmes has still secured hits like Alim McNeill and Kerby Joseph in mid-rounds. Lions fans are advised to stay patient, as the big picture remains strong, but pressure is on for these picks to contribute now.

Support the show:
Get a discount at https://solipillow.com/discount/dnn.

Advertise on DNN:
[email protected]

This is an automated, high-level news summary based on public reporting.
Report issues to [email protected].

View sources & latest updates:
https://sources.thednn.ai/d87ab4a1a64440a7