Ranking Brad Holmes’ Worst Free Agent Signings for the Lions
As the Detroit Lions gear up for another round of free agency, general manager Brad Holmes’ strategy of targeting supplementary talent over big-name stars has had its successes—but also its misfires. While most of Holmes’ moves have been low-risk, a few signings just didn’t work out due to injuries, underperformance, or bad luck.
Here’s a look at the five worst free agent signings under Holmes, excluding players acquired via trades or the draft.
5. WR Breshad Perriman
Signed in 2021, Perriman came in on a one-year, $2 million deal with hopes of solidifying a thin receiver group. However, he failed to impress during training camp and never made the final 53-man roster.
4. WR Tyrell Williams
Another 2021 signing, Williams was given a one-year, $4 million contract despite missing the prior season with a torn labrum. He played just one game, catching two passes for 14 yards, before a concussion ended his season and ultimately his time in Detroit.
3. S C.J. Gardner-Johnson
The Lions signed Gardner-Johnson in 2023 after he led the NFL in interceptions the year before with Philadelphia. He suffered a torn pec in Week 2, returned in Week 18, but had already been replaced by Ifeatu Melifonwu. He left after one year, re-signing with the Eagles.
2. CB Emmanuel Moseley
Coming off a torn ACL, Moseley was given a one-year deal in 2023 but reinjured his knee on his third snap. The Lions re-signed him for 2024, only for him to suffer a torn pec in joint practices. He played in just three games over two seasons.
1. CB Cam Sutton
The biggest free-agent investment of Holmes’ tenure, Sutton signed a three-year, $33 million contract in 2023. He played every game in his first season, but a domestic abuse allegation in the 2024 offseason led to his release. He later signed with Pittsburgh after an eight-game suspension.
Despite these setbacks, Holmes’ free-agent strategy has still helped build the Lions into NFC contenders. Now, with another free agency cycle approaching, Detroit will look to avoid similar pitfalls while adding talent for another deep playoff run.
