Detroit Lions general manager Brad Holmes faced significant criticism when he decided to use a first-round draft pick on running back Jahmyr Gibbs. However, after Gibbs’s stellar rookie season, Holmes is now basking in the success and taking a well-deserved victory lap.
Throughout the season, the 21-year-old running back proved to be a potent weapon for the Lions, contributing significantly to their journey to the NFC Championship game. Gibbs showcased his versatility by rushing for an impressive 945 yards, scoring 10 touchdowns on the ground, and also making an impact in the passing game with 52 receptions for 316 yards and a receiving touchdown.
Holmes expressed his optimism for Gibbs’s future during a recent interview, stating that he expects an even better season from the talented running back in 2024. This statement reflects the confidence the Lions’ management has in Gibbs’s abilities and highlights their anticipation for his continued growth and success on the field.
Praise for Jahmyr Gibbs
After a standout rookie season where Jahmyr Gibbs surpassed 1,200 yards from scrimmage, Detroit Lions general manager Brad Holmes couldn’t contain his excitement for the former Alabama running back. He believes that Gibbs’s performance in 2023 was just a glimpse of what he can achieve in Detroit’s offense.
Expressing his enthusiasm, Holmes stated, “Again, I’m just so excited. He’s gonna be better next year, like this was just scratching the surface of what he did this year. Next year’s gonna be even better which is scary. But super proud of him and he’s so humble. He’s worked hard and he’s a perfect fit for us.”
Gibbs’s rookie year was indeed remarkable, particularly his ability to gain yards after contact, which proved pivotal in propelling the Detroit Lions into the NFC Championship. His agility and vision on the field set him apart, and he’s expected to be a force to reckon with for years to come.
Holmes orchestrated a youth movement for the Lions’ offense, selecting tight end Sam LaPorta with the team’s second-round draft pick in 2023. LaPorta subsequently set numerous franchise records while becoming a preferred target for quarterback Jared Goff.
Praising both Gibbs and LaPorta, Holmes emphasized their maturity and their embrace of the culture instilled by head coach Dan Campbell in Detroit. He commended their intelligence, competitiveness, and toughness, highlighting how these qualities contributed to their impressive production on the field.
Holmes emphasized the importance of intangible qualities in players, stating, “You see a lot of guys that are as talented, maybe even guys that are more talented than him but like we preach all the time, if you don’t have those intangible qualities that we look for in Detroit Lions, it’s gonna be hard. And those guys put that on display this year.”
Brad Holmes Justified With Pick
There was plenty of criticism when Holmes used the No. 12 overall pick for Gibbs, especially given the team’s deep needs on defense and the relatively de-valued running back position. Many suggested the Lions would have been better served keeping the No. 6 pick rather than trading back and taking help for the secondary.
“Silence, that’s a good word because he’s pretty silent himself. He’s not gonna say a whole lot but it’s who he is, that’s his make up,” Holmes said. “We selected Jahmyr Gibbs because he was just a special player, regardless of position, he was the right player. And for him to have the relationship that he had with David Montgomery and just the way those two fed onto each other. Scottie Montgomery teaching those guys, it takes everyone but I’m just so happy for Jahmyr.”
GRT MORE NEWS HERE