Lions hire Brad Holmes as GM

The Lions have their new general manager. Rams' Collegiate Scouting Director Brad Holmes has agreed to a five-year deal to become the GM in Detroit. He replaces Bob Quinn, who was fired midseason.

The Lions interviewed 12 candidates for the position, including veteran GMs like Thomas Dimitroff and Rick Smith, TV analysts like ESPN's Louis Riddick, and up-and-coming assistant executives like Holmes, new Denver GM George Paton, and Indianapolis's Ed Dodds. There were even rumors of making runs at Steelers' GM Kevin Colbert, a former Lions' executive, and Seattle GM John Schneider.

Holmes has been with the Rams his entire career and has been praised for his scouting ability since his days as an intern. He has been in the league for 18 years and has even been trusted with running LA's drafts. He has seen several different philosophies and coaches, and, while under the radar, has been called a "young Ozzie Newsome." Holmes is also the nephew of former Lion Luther Bradley.

The college scouting part should be intriguing for Lions' fans. While Detroit has had some big whiffs in the draft, the Rams have been largely successful--even without first round picks in many recent drafts. The Rams also have a much more extensive scouting process that should help bring much needed talent to Detroit.

Holmes was also reportedly in heavy consideration for the Atlanta GM job and has been praised by many throughout the league.