By Sunday 
From overlooked intern to Detroit’s draft-day mastermind.
The Almost Lion
In 2003, Brad Holmes had a decision that—at the time—seemed minor: two internship offers, one from the Detroit Lions and one from the St. Louis Rams. He initially accepted the Lions gig. But then, while digging into each organization’s intern history, he noticed something that changed everything.
The Rams hired from within. The Lions? Not so much.
Holmes quickly pivoted, opting to join the Rams as a PR intern. From there, he grinded his way into scouting, earned his stripes, and eventually became Director of College Scouting. That move set the stage for a two-decade-long rise in NFL personnel circles.
But what if he’d stayed with Detroit?
A Missed Opportunity… or a Necessary Detour?
At the time Holmes was choosing internships, Detroit was under the questionable reign of Matt Millen. The Lions were not known for cultivating talent—on the field or in the front office. If Holmes had stuck with his original decision, there’s a good chance his NFL dreams might’ve ended in a forgotten press room in Allen Park.
Instead, he found a culture of growth and mentorship in St. Louis, learning under Les Snead and others who understood how to build a franchise.
Full Circle
Years later, when the Lions were hunting for a new GM, Holmes’ name resurfaced—this time with a resume that made him impossible to ignore. He had become a proven evaluator, capable of uncovering gems deep in the draft and building winning rosters without splashy signings.
Ironically, it was a failed video interview years earlier that helped put him on Detroit’s radar. The Lions COO Mike Disner reviewed that old tape during the hiring process. What might’ve been seen as a failed moment? Instead, it was proof of growth—and of Holmes’ readiness.
The Long Game Pays Off
Since joining Detroit, Holmes has helped lead a full-blown turnaround: back-to-back division titles, a trip to the NFC Championship, and a culture shift that’s made the Lions one of the NFL’s most exciting franchises.
Funny, isn’t it? Detroit lost Brad Holmes in 2003… but in the end, that was the best thing that could’ve happened.