The 2024 NFL draft is just around the corner, and Detroit Lions fans are buzzing with excitement as the city prepares to host the event. There is anticipation among locals who are eager to see who the hometown team will select in the first round. However, Lions GM Brad Holmes hinted in a pre-draft press conference that the team may not make a pick in the first round. Holmes is open to the idea of trading out of the No. 29 pick and potentially the entire first round if it aligns with the best interests of the organization, regardless of the fan reaction.
Holmes emphasized the importance of doing what is right for the team, even if it means disappointing fans who have been eagerly awaiting the draft night pick. He explained that if the team receives an offer that is too good to refuse and makes sense for the organization, they will have to make that decision, even if it means trading out of the first round. This approach demonstrates Holmes’ willingness to be aggressive in trading to improve the team’s roster and future prospects.
In the past two NFL drafts, the Lions have engaged in trades within the first round, showcasing Holmes’ proactive approach to building the team. In 2022, the team moved up to select wide receiver Jameson Williams, and in 2023, they traded back from the No. 6 spot to acquire more selections. Holmes’ track record of making strategic trades to benefit the team’s long-term success highlights his commitment to building a competitive roster.
Despite the potential decision to trade out of the first round, Holmes expressed hope that Lions fans will understand and support the team’s strategic moves. He acknowledged that it may be disappointing for fans who have eagerly anticipated the draft night pick but emphasized the importance of prioritizing the team’s long-term success over short-term expectations. By being transparent about the possibility of trading out of the No. 29 pick, Holmes is setting expectations for fans and demonstrating that he will make decisions that are in the best interest of the Detroit Lions.
The excitement surrounding the upcoming 2024 NFL draft in Detroit is palpable, with fans eagerly awaiting the opportunity to witness the event in person and see how the Lions will navigate their draft strategy. While the possibility of not making a first-round pick may come as a surprise to some, Holmes’ willingness to explore trading options demonstrates his commitment to improving the team’s roster and setting them up for success in the long run. As the draft approaches, all eyes will be on the Lions and their draft night decisions, with fans hopeful that Holmes’ strategic approach will ultimately benefit the team in the long term.
