INSIDER: Brad Holmes Puts FAITH in Detroit Lions Youth—Will Week 2 of FA be different?

Detroit Lions fans express frustration as the team takes a cautious stance in NFL free agency despite high expectations after last season’s disappointing drop from 15 to 9 wins. Matt Dery discusses GM Brad Holmes’ unwavering philosophy—draft, develop, and re-sign—including the headline addition of Cade Mays at center and the homecoming of tight end Tyler Conklin. With only one starter spot meaningfully addressed and a host of one-year “prove-it” deals for key depth pieces like Christian Izien and Isiah Pacheco, questions arise: Where’s the urgency to fill glaring holes at edge rusher and linebacker? Is Brad Holmes betting too much on continuity and internal development, or are extensions for stars like Sam LaPorta and Brian Branch just around the corner? As Lions Nation debates the direction of Detroit’s offseason, the roster lags behind last year’s at this stage—will bargain hunting and the draft be enough to keep the Lions in contention?