By Sunday 
The Detroit Lions have been buzzing ever since Brad Holmes took over as general manager in 2021. From savvy picks to culture-changing decisions, his fingerprints are all over the team’s rapid rise. But if the early weeks of the 2025 season are any indication, Holmes may have just delivered one of his best draft classes yet.
And two rookies are already stealing the spotlight.
A Rookie Wideout with Sticky Hands
Isaac TeSlaa may only have two career catches, but oh boy, they’ve both been highlight-reel worthy. His Week 2 grab—a one-handed snag nearly 30 yards downfield with a defender practically glued to him—left fans and analysts shaking their heads.
As Pro Football Focus (PFF) put it, “TeSlaa made a one-handed catch almost 30 yards downfield with Tyrique Stevenson draped all over him.” That kind of play isn’t just luck; it’s skill honed from years of practice.
Believe it or not, TeSlaa was once a quarterback. But even back then, he was running receiver drills with his dad, working on those very one-handed catches. Fast forward to today, and it’s clear all those backyard sessions are paying off.
Ratledge’s Redemption in the Trenches
While TeSlaa dazzles on the outside, Tate Ratledge is quietly making waves on the inside. After a shaky first showing in pass protection, the rookie guard flipped the script in Week 2.
According to PFF, Ratledge allowed just one pressure on 30 pass-blocking snaps—a massive improvement from Week 1, where he gave up three pressures and a sack. His better protection was a big part of why the Lions’ offensive line looked sharper against Chicago.
Consistency is key in the trenches, and if Ratledge keeps this up, Detroit’s offense will only get more dangerous.
What This Means for Detroit
Getting two rookies recognized this early is more than just a pat on the back—it’s momentum. Young players usually take time to adjust, but TeSlaa and Ratledge are proving they can contribute right away.
As the Lions gear up for a tough Week 3 matchup against the Baltimore Ravens, these early flashes of brilliance could make all the difference. And if Holmes’ track record tells us anything, this is just the beginning.
Detroit might not just have a good rookie class. They might have a great one.