Detroit Lions general manager Brad Holmes took a brief break from football this weekend to return to where it all began—his alma mater, North Carolina A&T State University. Holmes delivered the commencement speech to the Class of 2025, and true to form, he brought a powerful message rooted in grit, discipline, and the kind of life lessons that have helped shape the Lions’ culture.
In a standout moment from the speech, Holmes referenced a poem called “Choose Your Hard,” using it as a framework for some honest, no-fluff wisdom. “Marriage is hard, divorce is hard. Choose your hard,” he said. “Being in debt is hard, being financially disciplined is hard. Choose your hard.” The message? Life doesn’t hand out easy paths—but you do get to choose which struggle is worth it.
Holmes drew parallels between that mindset and how he operates in Detroit, telling the crowd that while it’s hard to be detail-oriented and go the extra mile, it’s just as hard—maybe even harder—to cut corners and deal with the consequences later.
The speech reflected the very identity the Lions have built under Holmes and head coach Dan Campbell. Remember, Detroit started 4-19-1 under their leadership. But they stuck with the plan. Since then, they’ve gone 35-9, won playoff games, and turned into legitimate Super Bowl contenders. Holmes didn’t just talk about choosing your hard—he lived it.
The full speech is available online, but that short clip says it all: success comes from embracing the grind, not avoiding it.
From Rebuild to Respect: Brad Holmes Reflects on Tough Choices in Graduation Speech
