Detroit is one of the 12 teams that have never won a Super Bowl. Despite coming close to reaching the Super Bowl in 2023, the Lions ultimately fell short against the 49ers in the NFC Championship Game. General Manager Brad Holmes is focused on sustained success rather than a short-term “all-in” approach, looking to models like the Patriots and Chiefs for inspiration. He believes in continuing to improve every year through their process rather than chasing a championship window.
Holmes has made key draft picks like Penei Sewell, Amon-Ra St. Brown, Aidan Hutchinson, Alim McNeill, Kerby Joseph, Jahmyr Gibbs, and Sam LaPorta to build their roster. Quarterback Jared Goff was acquired in a trade with the Rams in 2021, and the team added Carlton Davis, D.J. Reader, and Kevin Zeitler this offseason. As they head into the draft with the 29th pick, Holmes emphasized the importance of sticking to their process even if it means trading out of the first round. He humorously hoped fans would forgive them if they decided to make such a move.