As the 2025 NFL Draft approaches, curiosity is rampant in Detroit—and Lions General Manager Brad Holmes has just added gasoline to the fire. In a recent media session, Holmes admitted the team’s interest in wide receiver talent, a rare public indication that Detroit may be considering a huge move up the draft board or a high-profile trade to boost its offense.
“We’re always looking to improve, especially at skill positions,” Holmes said when asked about reports linking Detroit to many top wideouts. “You never want to rule out adding explosive playmakers—whether that’s through the draft or other avenues.”
Though Holmes did not mention any specific players, experts believe the Lions are interested in one of this year’s top three wide receiver prospects: Ohio State’s Marvin Harrison Jr., Louisiana State’s Malik Nabers, or Washington’s Rome Odunze. Detroit, which is currently scheduled to choose at the end of the first round, will most certainly need to move up significantly to grab any of those premier pass-catchers.
That possibility is exactly what is fueling draft-week speculation. Several league sources indicate that Detroit has been in active discussions with top-10 clubs, including the Chargers and Titans, both of which may be willing to trade down in exchange for a package of selections.
“There’s real smoke here,” observed an NFC executive. “Detroit has the roster to compete right now, but they need a WR1 to replace what they lost in the offseason. “Don’t be surprised if they go bold.”
The Lions’ need for a wide receiver became clear after veteran Josh Reynolds signed elsewhere in free agency. While Amon-Ra St. Brown continues to excel as a Pro Bowl-caliber slot receiver, Detroit’s outside depth is limited. Late last season, Jameson Williams showed signs of promise, but doubts about his consistency and health linger.
Adding a dynamic outside threat would bolster an already formidable offense led by quarterback Jared Goff and directed by Ben Johnson. With a top-five offensive line and an emerging running back combo in Jahmyr Gibbs and David Montgomery, the Lions could be just one outstanding wideout away from becoming the NFC’s most dangerous offense.
Holmes has never been afraid to take big risks. Last year, he surprised many by selecting Jahmyr Gibbs and linebacker Jack Campbell in the first round, choices that paid off nicely. With expectations sky-high following Detroit’s first playoff run in decades, the general manager appears poised to strike again.
The Lions are clearly in attack mode, whether they’re trading up for a big rookie or seeking a veteran like Brandon Aiyuk or Tee Higgins, both of whom are said to be available.
“We’re not afraid to be aggressive,” Holmes explained. “We have established a foundation. “Now it’s time to finish the puzzle.”
With the draft just a few days away, Lions supporters will pay close attention to every rumor, story, and whisper. And if history is any indication, Brad Holmes may be planning another surprise.
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