Detroit Lions GM Brad Holmes recently addressed fan frustration over the team’s pass rush, particularly the lack of a strong counterpart to star defensive end Aidan Hutchinson. Despite Hutchinson’s standout performance, Holmes emphasized the challenges in acquiring elite edge rushers and defended the team’s drafting decisions. (Brad Holmes Addresses Detroit Lions Fan Frustration Over Pass Rush, Brad Holmes gets defiant about Lions not prioritizing addition of an edge rusher)
🏈 Brad Holmes on Fan Expectations: “They’re Mad Because We Have Aidan Hutchinson”
Holmes acknowledged that since drafting Hutchinson, fans have been eager for another elite edge rusher to complement him. However, he pointed out the scarcity of top-tier edge players in the NFL, stating, “They’re hard to find, they’re hard to get, they’re hard to acquire.” (Detroit Lions Brad Holmes: Fans ‘Mad’ Since We Added Aidan Hutchinson)
He further elaborated that having one elite edge rusher often leads to increased expectations, with fans questioning why the team doesn’t have two. Holmes challenged this notion, asking, “Are you trying to build a football team? Or are you trying to just pair ends?” (Brad Holmes Addresses Detroit Lions Fan Frustration Over Pass Rush)
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🧠 Draft Strategy: Prioritizing Fit Over Position
In the 2025 NFL Draft, the Lions did not select an edge rusher until the sixth round, choosing Ahmed Hassanein from Boise State. Holmes explained that the decision was based on the team’s thorough evaluation process, emphasizing the importance of a player’s fit within the team’s scheme and standards. (Brad Holmes Addresses Detroit Lions Fan Frustration Over Pass Rush)
He noted that while it’s easy to draft an edge rusher, finding one who meets the team’s specific requirements is more challenging. Holmes stated, “If you draft an edge rusher that’s not contributing to the level that we would all like, then what’s next? Oh, find another edge rusher because that one wasn’t good enough.” (Brad Holmes Addresses Detroit Lions Fan Frustration Over Pass Rush, Detroit Lions Brad Holmes: Fans ‘Mad’ Since We Added Aidan Hutchinson)
🔄 Challenges in Trading Up
Holmes revealed that the team attempted to trade up in the draft but faced difficulties due to their late-round positions. Despite these challenges, the Lions successfully moved up to select guard Tate Ratledge and wide receiver Isaac TeSlaa, indicating a strategic approach to addressing team needs. (2025 NFL Draft Grades: Detroit fills in gaps, aims to remain top threat in NFL)
📋 FAQ: Lions’ Pass Rush and Draft Decisions
Q: Why didn’t the Lions draft an edge rusher earlier?
A: The team prioritized players who fit their specific criteria and were unable to find an edge rusher meeting those standards in the early rounds.
Q: Who is Ahmed Hassanein?
A: Hassanein is a defensive end from Boise State, selected by the Lions in the sixth round of the 2025 NFL Draft. He is considered a developmental player with potential. (Grading Lions’ selection of Ahmed Hassanein)
Q: Are the Lions planning to acquire another edge rusher?
A: While the team is always looking to improve, Holmes emphasized the difficulty in acquiring elite edge rushers and the importance of building a complete team. (Brad Holmes Addresses Detroit Lions Fan Frustration Over Pass Rush)
Read more: Detroit Lions 2025 NFL Draft: Key Takeaways and Analysis
