Brad Holmes and the Lions Face Harsh Draft Criticism for 2025 Class
The 2025 NFL Draft didn’t bring rave reviews for the Detroit Lions. Despite selecting seven players — including intriguing prospects like defensive lineman Tyleik Williams and wide receiver Isaac TeSlaa — the national consensus was underwhelming.
Near the Bottom of the Class
A comprehensive summary by NFL analyst Rene Bugner, which compiles average grades from a variety of media outlets, placed the Lions near the league’s basement. Detroit’s draft class earned a cumulative GPA of just 2.33, tied with the Miami Dolphins for second-worst in the NFL. Only the Cincinnati Bengals received a lower grade, with a 2.08 GPA.
It’s a surprisingly poor reception for a team that just wrapped up a 15–2 season and secured the NFC’s top playoff seed.
Confidence in Holmes Remains Strong
While the low marks may concern some, both fans and the organization aren’t likely to panic. General Manager Brad Holmes has consistently defied early skepticism throughout his tenure.
Several of his earlier picks — like Amon-Ra St. Brown, Alim McNeill, and Kerby Joseph — were once met with doubt, only to develop into foundational contributors.
Even the polarizing move to trade up for Isaac TeSlaa, Holmes’ top-rated receiver in this year’s draft, could pay off in a big way in the future.
Perspective Over Panic
It’s important to remember that draft grades are more about immediate perception than long-term reality. Holmes has repeatedly shown he knows how to build a contender, even if early reviews don’t always reflect that.
While the Lions may not have won over the draft analysts this April, there’s plenty of reason to believe this class could prove the doubters wrong in the seasons ahead.
