Detroit Lions GM Brad Holmes faced significant backlash when he opted for running back Jahmyr Gibbs in the first round of the draft. However, he’s now reveling in vindication following Gibbs’ outstanding rookie campaign.
The 21-year-old emerged as a key asset for the Lions, contributing significantly to their journey to the NFC Championship game. Gibbs racked up 945 rushing yards and 10 touchdowns, along with 52 receptions for 316 yards and another touchdown through the air. Holmes recently expressed his confidence in Gibbs, predicting an even more impressive performance in the upcoming 2024 season.
Praise for Jahmyr Gibbs
Following a rookie season where Gibbs surpassed 1,200 scrimmage yards, Holmes struggled to contain his excitement for the former Alabama running back. The Lions’ GM expressed his belief that 2023 merely provided a glimpse of Gibbs’ potential within Detroit’s offensive scheme.
“Once again, I’m absolutely thrilled. He’s poised to excel even more next year; what he accomplished this year was just the beginning,” Holmes remarked, as reported by SI.com. “His progression is truly remarkable. But I’m immensely proud of him, and his humility is commendable. He’s dedicated and perfectly aligned with our team.”
Holmes initiated a youth movement within the Lions’ offense by selecting tight end Sam LaPorta with the team’s second-round pick in 2023. LaPorta proceeded to shatter numerous franchise records, establishing himself as a preferred target for quarterback Jared Goff.
Commending both players, Holmes noted their maturity and their embrace of head coach Dan Campbell’s cultural vision for the team.
“Jahmyr epitomizes electrifying play, marked by exceptional explosiveness. Yet, he also brings intelligence, competitiveness, and resilience, much like Sam,” Holmes elaborated. “Sam, too, embodies humility, alongside toughness and competitiveness. They demonstrated these qualities admirably, thriving within the culture we’ve cultivated in Detroit. Talent alone isn’t enough; it’s the intangible qualities we prioritize as Detroit Lions, and they exemplified those throughout the season.”
Brad Holmes Justified With Pick
There was significant backlash when Holmes chose Gibbs with the No. 12 overall pick, particularly considering the team’s pressing defensive needs and the diminishing value of running backs in the league. Many argued that the Lions would have been wiser to hold onto the No. 6 pick rather than trading back and addressing the secondary.
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However, Holmes contends that the critics have been silenced. “Silence, that’s an apt description because Gibbs himself is rather reserved. He doesn’t speak much, but that’s just who he is,” Holmes remarked. “We drafted Jahmyr Gibbs because he displayed exceptional talent, regardless of his position. He was simply the right choice. His connection with David Montgomery and the synergy between them was evident. Scottie Montgomery’s guidance was invaluable in shaping these players. It’s a team effort, and I’m genuinely thrilled for Jahmyr.”
