By Moses Joshua 
Brodric Martin’s future in Detroit looks increasingly uncertain after Brad Holmes delivers a blunt assessment ahead of the draft.
A Harsh Reality for a Young Defensive Lineman
When the Detroit Lions selected Brodric Martin in the third round of the 2023 NFL Draft (No. 96 overall), there was cautious optimism about his long-term potential. But after just five appearances in two seasons—three as a rookie and two last year—that optimism is fading fast. Injuries certainly played a role in his limited playing time, but the repeated healthy scratches have raised serious questions about his place on the roster.
And now, with the NFL Draft just around the corner and Detroit actively scouting for defensive line reinforcements, it appears Martin’s leash is rapidly shortening.
Holmes Gets Real: “He Just Needs to Be a Consistent Player”
Speaking candidly at the NFL Annual League Meeting, Lions general manager Brad Holmes didn’t mince words when asked about Martin’s progress.
“Obviously, you guys all know I was very clear and transparent that, you know, he was more in the developmental project bucket when we took him,” Holmes said. “But you know, now it’s time for him not to just — because he brought flashes in the preseason. When he came (back) from his injury, he brought flashes, but you know, he had some low points as well. We need to see more of the consistency of the flashes and he just needs to be a consistent player. And he knows that.”
Holmes added that Martin has the physical tools and raw ability to become a productive player—but emphasized that potential without consistency is no longer enough. “We’ve had transparent conversations,” he continued, “and so, he knows that he needs to be a consistent player.”
A Draft-Day Warning Shot?
While Holmes’ comments could be interpreted as motivational, they read more like a final warning—or even a thinly veiled farewell. His tone didn’t exactly radiate confidence or patience, and as one analyst noted, “This reads exactly like a GM who’s already made his mind up.”
The Lions are expected to prioritize defensive line depth in the upcoming draft, and with Martin failing to lock in a stable role after two seasons, he may find himself squeezed out of an increasingly competitive room. For now, Martin’s fate remains uncertain, but the writing on the wall couldn’t be clearer: it’s do or die time in Detroit.
And if this truly is the end of the road, Lions fans will be left to remember the short-lived Brodric Martin era not for what it was—but for what it never became.