Brad Holmes: No Intriguing or Interesting Calls About Trading Pick – A Look at the Lions’ Draft Night Strategy

Introduction: The Calm Before the 2025 NFL Draft Storm

With the 2025 NFL Draft just around the corner, the Detroit Lions find themselves holding the 28th overall pick, a critical position that could have significant implications for the future of the team. General manager Brad Holmes, known for his aggressive and calculated moves on draft night, has remained tight-lipped about any significant trade discussions. In fact, Holmes recently revealed that, as of now, the Lions have not received any intriguing or compelling trade offers for their first-round selection.

While trade rumors often swirl leading up to the draft, Holmes’ comments offer an interesting insight into the Lions’ strategy heading into the 2025 draft. With a well-stocked roster and playoff aspirations, the Lions are in a unique position where they don’t have to make a trade, but they’re always open to one if it makes sense. As we look ahead, let’s dive into Holmes’ draft philosophy and what fans can expect on draft night.

Holmes’ Draft Philosophy: Willing, But Not Desperate

Brad Holmes has earned a reputation for being both strategic and bold in his draft decisions. In his first few seasons as general manager, Holmes has shown that he’s not afraid to make moves to improve the team. Whether it’s trading up to secure key players or moving back to accumulate more assets, Holmes has demonstrated a flexible approach to building the team.

“We’ve made moves in the past,” Holmes said in an interview leading up to the draft. “We’ve done it before in three of my four drafts, and it’s something I’m definitely open to. But it’s not something I feel like I have to do.”

Holmes’ willingness to trade is not about making a splash, but about seizing the right opportunity. Whether moving up or down the board, his focus remains on ensuring that the players available align with the team’s needs and strategic goals.

Trading Up or Back: What’s in the Cards for the Lions?

The 28th overall pick gives the Lions a unique opportunity to draft a promising player, but Holmes has made it clear that he’s not tied to any one outcome. Last year, the Lions traded up to select cornerback Terrion Arnold, and the year prior, they moved back from the sixth pick to grab running back Jahmyr Gibbs at 12. In 2022, they made a significant move by trading up 20 spots to select wide receiver Jameson Williams, a move that paid off when Williams showed flashes of brilliance in his rookie season.

When asked about the possibility of moving up or down in the 2025 draft, Holmes didn’t rule out either option. His decision will depend on how the draft board shapes up and which players are still available.

“I think it’s kind of based on just what the overall — let’s call it what the talent level is and how high the talent level is in each draft,” Holmes explained. “I don’t really go into it like, ‘I’ve got to trade up, I’ve got to trade up, I’ve got to trade up.’ But trading back, it’s just how many of those players would be available, and how much less of a player would you be getting?”

For Holmes, the decision to move up or down isn’t about being aggressive for the sake of it; it’s about maximizing the value for the Lions, whether that means landing a top-tier talent or gaining additional assets to build the roster in the long term.

The Case for Staying Put: Why the 28th Pick Could Be Gold

While the idea of trading up to grab a coveted prospect is always tempting, Holmes seems to understand that staying at the 28th pick could prove equally beneficial. Given that this draft is expected to be deep with talent, the Lions could find a strong contributor without having to sacrifice future assets or disrupt their draft strategy.

One of the key factors in Holmes’ decision-making process is the availability of players in the same talent tier. If the team believes there are multiple players in the same tier of talent still available at the 28th pick, they may opt to stay put and avoid overpaying for a player they could get at a later pick.

What Fans Can Expect on Draft Night

As the draft approaches, fans will undoubtedly be keeping a close eye on Holmes’ moves. While he has expressed that the team has not yet received any compelling trade offers, that could all change on the night of the draft. The Lions’ general manager has made it clear that he is willing to consider a trade if the situation aligns with the team’s needs and future goals.

For now, fans should prepare for a potential selection at the 28th pick, but also stay tuned for any unexpected moves. Whether it’s moving up to grab a rising star or trading back to accumulate more draft picks, the Lions’ front office is not bound by any preconceived notions.

Conclusion: Holmes Holds All the Cards in the 2025 NFL Draft

Brad Holmes’ approach to the 2025 NFL Draft is one of flexibility and careful consideration. While he hasn’t received any “intriguing or interesting” calls about the 28th pick yet, he remains open to the idea of making a trade if the right opportunity arises. For now, the Lions are in a strong position to make a solid pick, whether they stay at 28 or make a move to shake things up.

As the draft approaches, fans should expect the unexpected from Holmes and the Lions. Whatever happens, one thing is certain: Holmes’ philosophy is built on making calculated, strategic moves to ensure the long-term success of the team. The 2025 draft could be another crucial step in the Lions’ journey to becoming a true Super Bowl contender.