This was a tough one, but I wanted to push myself with this challenge. On Thursday, ESPN’s Bill Barnwell ranked the worst decisions made by all 32 NFL teams over the last five years. The Lions ranked relatively low on the list, with their worst decision being a move made long before Brad Holmes took over.
The Lions’ selection of Jeff Okudah with the 3rd overall pick in 2020, made by Bob Quinn, was deemed their biggest mistake. This got me thinking: is there anything Brad Holmes has done in the past four years that could be considered “the worst thing he has done?”
Holmes has done an outstanding job in the draft, and even when there’s initial doubt about a pick, it’s often proven wrong later. He’s also performed well in free agency. For example, this year the Lions overhauled their cornerback room with great success. Although they stumbled in this area last year, it didn’t prevent them from nearly reaching the top.
So, what is the one thing you could point to and say, “That was the worst thing Holmes has done”? I think I’ve found it. Holmes may have been a bit too confident in his team’s pass-rush abilities since 2022.
While the Lions hit big with Aidan Hutchinson, they still haven’t found a reliable partner to pair with him. Over the past two years, the Lions have largely avoided drafting or signing edge rushers. The one signing they made, Marcus Davenport, has struggled with injuries and is currently sidelined for the season.
Josh Paschal and Levi Onwuzurike are solid players and provide great depth, but neither has shown they’re capable of being consistent starters who can make a major impact.
I can understand where some of this confidence came from. John Cominsky had a strong 2022, and it was hard to predict he’d struggle in 2023 and then miss 2024. Davenport’s injury issues felt almost inevitable, but I can still see the logic behind the move.
I also understand why Holmes didn’t trade for anyone at last year’s deadline or sign any high-priced players this year. However, I don’t quite understand why he didn’t draft or sign a second- or third-tier edge rusher to help out.
Holmes largely stood pat on edge rushers until he truly needed to, bringing in Za’Darius Smith at the deadline after Hutchinson’s injury. If Smith can maintain his performance next year, the Lions could have a strong pair of edge rushers. The team may still look to draft one.
Ultimately, this hasn’t been a major issue for the Lions. I’m not criticizing Holmes heavily; I just wanted to identify something that could be considered his worst decision so far. If this is as bad as it gets, the Lions are in great shape moving forward.
