A Feline Flames Out: Detroit Lions’ NFC Championship Game Loss Sparks Determination for Long-Term Success

Detroit’s Lions came close to reaching the Super Bowl in 2023, but fell short in the NFC Championship Game to the San Francisco 49ers. Despite this setback, General Manager Brad Holmes is determined to create sustained success for the team. His approach mirrors that of the New England Patriots and Kansas City Chiefs, who have achieved great success over time through a focused process.

Unlike some teams that go all-in for one championship title, Holmes wants the Lions to improve every year through their process. This means building a strong roster from within, using the draft to select homegrown talent like offensive lineman Penei Sewell, receiver Amon-Ra St. Brown, edge rusher Aidan Hutchinson, and others. The team also acquired key players like quarterback Jared Goff through a trade with the Los Angeles Rams in 2021 and added defensive back Carlton Davis, defensive tackle D.J. Reader, and offensive guard Kevin Zeitler in free agency.

As they prepare for the upcoming draft, where they hold the 29th pick, Holmes emphasized the importance of sticking to their process. He mentioned that there may be opportunities for trades out of the first round but hoped fans would understand if they decided to do so. The team is focused on continued improvement and building a competitive roster for the future.

The Lions have built their team around a strong foundation of homegrown talent and key acquisitions made through trades and free agency. With General Manager Brad Holmes leading the way, they are determined to achieve sustained success over time just like other top teams in the NFL such as the Patriots and Chiefs have done before them.