In the 2023 NFL Draft, Detroit Lions General Manager Brad Holmes surprised many by selecting Jahmyr Gibbs with the 12th overall pick, despite widespread doubts about the running back position’s value. This bold move was driven by Holmes’s belief in Gibbs as a versatile running back draft pick capable of revitalizing the Lions’ offense through his multifaceted skill set.
Gibbs, hailing from Alabama, quickly demonstrated his dynamic ability by rushing for over 1,400 yards in his rookie season, while also proving to be a reliable target in the passing game. His unique combination of speed, agility, and versatility injected a fresh energy into a Lions offense eager to compete and make a lasting impact in the NFL.
The Influence of Marshall Faulk on Holmes’s Decision-Making
Holmes credits part of his confidence in drafting Gibbs to advice he received from Hall of Fame running back Marshall Faulk. Speaking on the Field Talk Podcast, Holmes shared how Faulk highlighted the growing importance of running backs who could perform multiple roles efficiently, a necessity in today’s salary-capped NFL environment.
Recalling a key moment early in his career, Holmes said,
“When I first started looking at Jahmyr Gibbs, that conversation I had with Marshall Faulk just started coming back to me,”
—Brad Holmes, General Manager. Faulk’s emphasis on the value of running backs who can handle short-yardage bursts, third-down conversions, and goal-line situations reinforced Holmes’s belief that versatility is critical in building a modern offense.
Holmes’s Unwavering Philosophy Amid Doubts
Although running backs have become less prioritized in many draft strategies, Holmes has consistently trusted his instincts rather than following the prevailing opinion. He acknowledged the natural difficulty in opposing common consensus, explaining,
“It’s hard to go against the grain because our brains are naturally wired to want to get along,”
—Brad Holmes, General Manager. Yet it is this very determination that allowed him to push for Gibbs, aligning closely with his long-term plan for the team’s success.
Holmes’s path to the Detroit Lions exemplifies resilience; after initially declining a chance to work for the Lions in 2003, he returned in 2021 to assume the general manager role. His virtual interview with owner Sheila Hamp and team president Rod Wood created an immediate connection, motivating him to take on the challenge despite uncertainties such as quarterback Matthew Stafford’s pending trade request.
Building a New Identity for the Detroit Lions
Assuming leadership of a franchise with a complex history, Holmes recognized the opportunity to make a meaningful impact. Reflecting on his decision, he stated,
“You hear what the Lions have been, but it was an opportunity to become a GM,”
—Brad Holmes, General Manager. By fostering an environment focused on transparency and open communication with ownership, Holmes has helped position the Lions as an emerging force within the NFL landscape.
The choice of Jahmyr Gibbs reinforces Holmes’s strategic vision. It signals a shift toward adaptability and innovation, as Gibbs’s skill set perfectly suits the evolving demands of professional football. With Gibbs at the forefront, the Lions aim to establish a fresh legacy, one built on versatility and modern gameplay.
The Future Impact of Holmes’s Bold Draft Strategy
Holmes’s decision to draft Gibbs could serve as a blueprint for how teams evaluate running backs moving forward, especially as the NFL continues to evolve in style and strategy. Under Holmes’s leadership, Detroit is not merely reacting to change—they are actively shaping the new era of football. With talented players like Gibbs leading the charge, the Lions have laid the foundation for a dynamic and promising future where versatility is paramount.