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Brad Holmes  

Executive Vice President & General Manager for the Detroit Lions

Brad Holmes was appointed as the Lions' Executive Vice President and General Manager on January 14, 2021. Holding this role, he supervises the Lions' football operations and communicates directly to Principal Owner and Chair Sheila Ford Hamp and President and CEO Rod Wood. Since his appointment, Holmes has played a pivotal role in the Lions' transformation, leading them from the bottom of the league to a winning team by 2023.

Prior to joining the Lions, Holmes had an extensive 20-year career with the Los Angeles Rams (2003-2020). His last role in the Rams was as the Director of College Scouting, where he oversaw the team's college scouting operations for eight seasons. His leadership and experience in scouting have proved valuable in his role with the Lions.

During his tenure with the Lions, he has adopted a collaborative approach with Head Coach Dan Campbell, focusing on acquiring players with grit, passion, and football character. This strategy has been integral to the team's turnaround, which saw them make the playoffs in 2023, their first appearance since 2016. In the same year, they celebrated their first playoff game victory in 30 years.

His strategic decisions have been recognized by the NFL, earning him the NFL Executive of the Year award in 2023. His achievements have been a testament to his resilience, overcoming a series of obstacles, including surviving a near-fatal car accident while he was in college.

Holmes has had to overcome many obstacles to get to where he is today, including a near-fatal car accident while he was in college. Holmes played football for North Carolina A&T, where he was elected team captain by his peers. His lineage is deeply connected to the NFL, with both his father, Melvin Holmes, and his uncle, Luther Bradley, having had professional careers in the league. He continues to contribute to the NFL legacy of his family with his remarkable work as an executive.

Speech Topics


  • Dedication
  • Overcoming Adversity
  • Ability to Connect with People
  • Leadership
  • Community

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