Detroit Lions GM Brad Holmes is taking a measured approach to free agency. While some fans praise the focus on depth, others are frustrated by the lack of big signings.

Just two weeks into free agency, the Detroit Lions have already made multiple moves, but without any heavy investment, and it’s putting Brad Holmes right in the middle of the conversation, but not in a good way.

Some fans see a clear plan, adding depth and keeping flexibility. Others expected bigger, more aggressive signings from a team that’s close to contending. That difference in expectation is driving the debate. 

With many prove-it deals that mostly include 1-year contracts, the Lions have taken a measured approach that focuses on role players and roster balance. 

With other teams making splash moves, some question if this strategy is enough for the 2026 campaign.

GM Brad Holmes follows a simple approach. He uses free agency to fill the gaps in the roster, saving precious draft capital.

This is then followed by taking on the big guns in the drafting windows. At times, he has also restructured contracts to retain good players.

This time, the Lions have majorly focused on their O-line. Their best snatch was center Cade Mays. This decision of Brad Holmes was appreciated by many analysts as well. 

Other signings have been Isiah Pacheco from the Kansas City Chiefs, tight end Tyler Conklin, Larry Borom, Juice Scruggs from the Houston Texans, defensive back Christian Izien, and Roger McCreary. 

These were calculated moves taken by the GM Brad to strengthen the roster that was affected by the departure of the veteran talents.

The Detroit Lions lost running back (RB) David Montgomery to the Texans, linebacker Alex Anzalone joined the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, and Kalif Raymond signed with the Bears. 

Meanwhile, Taylor Decker and Graham Glasgow still await a new home in free agency.

With the 2026 NFL Draft approaching, Holmes’ strategy is only halfway complete. Whether this approach is viewed as cautious or calculated will ultimately depend on how the final pieces come together. In any case, the fans have already made their feelings clear.

Detroit Lions Fans Split Over Brad Holmes’ Free Agency Strategy

The reaction from fans shows a sharp divide in how Brad Holmes and the Detroit Lions are being evaluated right now. On one side, frustration is clear.

“Team is worse than last year. FAIL.” Another added, “Fail. This isn’t a Super Bowl roster, regardless of what they do in the draft,” One fan said, not holding back.  

There are also deeper concerns about roster construction, with one fan pointing out concerns about another playoff miss.

“We've made no ground in the last two offseasons… We just look middle of the pack, honestly,” the comment read.

At the same time, a large section of the fanbase is taking a more patient view. Some believe the plan isn’t complete yet.

“Pass.. They are set up perfectly for the draft,” one fan said.

Another fan spoke about how free agency wasn't over yet for a judgment to have been passed.

“There are 2 parts of free agency… He is waiting on the post draft to see what kind of bargains he can get,” the theory stated.

Other fans saw value in the current moves, noting that progress had been made.

“Pass. There's no viable, long term starters at areas of need in FA… They got younger in the process,” the comment read. 

Fans also focused on how it didn't have to be a pass or otherwise, and that the judgment shouldn't be binary.

“Honestly depends on what he does with the draft… if he gets 5 starters… he’s a genius,” a statement read. 

The Lions’ approach under Holmes has always been phased. Whether this offseason is viewed as a failure or a setup will depend on what comes next.

Share your opinions in the comments section about the GM Brad Holmes’ current roster. Read more at the Detroit Lions Community!

Written by

Kunwar Yashaswee Chhaunker

Edited by

Aadesh Dhote