The NFL offseason is well underway, but the Detroit Lions' front office is already looking ahead with optimism. On May 8, 2026, General Manager Brad Holmes appeared on NFL Network's Good Morning Football to provide an in-depth look at the team's roster depth, key position groups, and overall outlook for the 2026 season.
After several years of rebuilding, the Lions have evolved into a competitive team under the leadership of head coach Dan Campbell and offensive coordinator Drew Petzing. Holmes, who has been instrumental in constructing Detroit's current roster, spoke candidly about the organization's approach to building a sustainable contender.
Emphasizing Depth Across the Roster
A recurring theme throughout Holmes' interview was the emphasis on roster depth. Recognizing the wear and tear of an NFL season, especially in a physically demanding division, Holmes noted that building strength beyond the starting lineup is critical.
Holmes stated, "It's not just about your starting 22. It's about your 53. It's about your practice squad. It's about the guys pushing each other in training camp. We want competition at every single spot."
The Lions' defensive line exemplifies this philosophy. Anchored by standouts Aidan Hutchinson and Alim McNeill, the group has grown deeper with versatile players like Levi Onwuzurike, Payton Turner, and Tyleik Williams joining the rotation. Holmes praised this depth, highlighting how it keeps players fresh and maintains consistent pressure on opposing quarterbacks.
Additionally, the interior defensive line features a solid core with McNeill, Chris Smith, Mekhi Wingo, and Jay Tufele, giving defensive coordinator Kelvin Sheppard multiple options to scheme effectively.
Holmes confidently remarked, "You can't have enough guys who can affect the quarterback. We feel really good about the room we've built there."
Secondary Still Developing
While Holmes expressed confidence in Detroit's defensive front, he took a more measured tone when discussing the secondary. The unit, which has seen significant investment through the draft and free agency, remains a work in progress.
Key young players such as cornerbacks Terrion Arnold and Ennis Rakestraw Jr. have shown promise but are still growing together as a cohesive unit. Added veteran presence via D.J. Reed, Rock Ya-Sin, and Avonte Maddox brings stability and mentorship to a youthful group.
Holmes said, "We have a young group that has a lot of talent and a lot of pride. They're still growing together, but the competitive spirit is there. That's the most important thing."
He emphasized the value of combining developing talent with seasoned veterans who set high standards in meetings and on the field, underpinning a culture of continuous improvement.
Offensive Playmakers and Versatility
Detroit's offense features several cornerstone players, and Holmes was quick to recognize the impact of wide receiver Amon-Ra St. Brown, tight end Sam LaPorta, and running back Jahmyr Gibbs.
However, Holmes also shed light on the supporting cast that often flies under the radar. The running back room, for instance, is deep and versatile. Holmes praised veterans Justin Jackson and Isiah Pacheco alongside younger backs like Kye Robichaux and Sione Vaki, noting the multiple skill sets the group brings to the field.
"We have a stable of backs that can do a lot of different things," Holmes explained. "You need guys who can run between the tackles, guys who can catch out of the backfield, and guys who can pass protect. We feel like we check all those boxes."
On the offensive line, Holmes singled out tackle Penei Sewell as a leader and one of the best at his position league-wide. He also credited the depth behind Sewell--players like Colby Sorsdal, Giovanni Manu, and Larry Borom--for creating a competitive atmosphere that improves the unit collectively.
"Penei sets the standard, but we can't just rely on one guy," Holmes observed. "The guys behind him are pushing him, and they're preparing every week like they're the starter. That's how you build a championship culture."
Stability at Quarterback
A key factor in Detroit's recent progress has been the steady presence of Jared Goff under center. Holmes reiterated the organization's commitment to Goff, affirming his role as the leader of the offense.
"Jared is our guy," Holmes said firmly. "He's a leader. He makes the throws he needs to make, and he runs this offense at a high level. We have full confidence in him."
The quarterback room as a whole blends experience and potential, with veteran Teddy Bridgewater offering reliability as a backup and Luke Altmyer serving as a promising developmental prospect.
Holmes noted, "We're always looking to get better at every position. That's just the nature of the job."
Looking Forward to 2026
Brad Holmes' appearance on Good Morning Football provided Detroit Lions fans with a valuable glimpse into the team's philosophy and the front office's confidence in the roster's construction. The Lions look to build on recent momentum as they prepare for another challenging season in the NFC North.
With a deeper defense, a potent offense, and a quarterback room poised for success, Detroit is aiming to sustain its rise from rebuilding mode to real contender status. Holmes, Campbell, and the entire organization appear aligned on continuing that upward trajectory.
"We're not satisfied," Holmes concluded. "We have a lot of work to do. But I like where we are right now. I like the group we've assembled."
For Lions supporters, those words offer hope that 2026 will be another year to watch this team grow and contend at a high level.
Detroit Lions coaching staff and roster details in this article have been verified accurate as of May 2026.