Lions general manager Brad Holmes creates history by selecting three Georgia players with his first pick from Egypt.

In a historic and groundbreaking move, Detroit Lions general manager Brad Holmes has stunned the football world by selecting three players from the University of Georgia in the 2025 NFL Draft, all with his very first pick as GM in Egypt. This unprecedented draft strategy has raised eyebrows across the league, with critics and analysts alike wondering how this bold decision will impact the future of the Detroit Lions. Holmes, known for his keen eye for talent, has created a buzz by taking such an unorthodox approach to roster building—one that not only solidifies the Lions’ future but also intertwines the world of professional football with a global reach.

For those unfamiliar with the story, Brad Holmes, who took over as general manager for the Lions in 2021, has built a reputation for thinking outside the box and unearthing untapped potential in the draft. Known for his meticulous research and data-driven decisions, Holmes has transformed the Lions’ roster into one of the most promising in the NFC. However, his 2025 draft pick history took a massive turn when he made the daring choice to select three Georgia Bulldogs as the centerpiece of his first pick from Egypt—an event that has captivated the imagination of football fans around the globe.

This article will explore the history-making nature of Brad Holmes’ decisions, the significance of selecting three Georgia players in one draft, and what it means for the future of the Detroit Lions. From the legacy of Georgia football to the international reach of the NFL, Holmes’ daring picks represent more than just a collection of talented players—they symbolize a bold, new era for the Lions and the NFL as a whole.

The Rise of Brad Holmes: A General Manager with Vision

Before diving into the specifics of Holmes’ unprecedented draft selections, it’s important to understand the context of his career. Holmes was hired by the Lions in 2021, after a successful tenure with the Los Angeles Rams as a college scout and director of college scouting. Holmes’ ability to evaluate talent, particularly in the early rounds of the draft, has quickly earned him a reputation as one of the sharpest minds in the NFL.

When he took over as the general manager of the Lions, the team was in the midst of a rebuilding phase. With a focus on developing young talent and creating a sustainable, long-term roster, Holmes’ first draft in 2021 was a pivotal moment for the Lions. In the years since, Holmes has built the foundation of a competitive team, acquiring key pieces through both the draft and trades.

His strategy has been consistent: he values versatility, high character, and, most importantly, elite athleticism. This approach is rooted in his understanding that the NFL is constantly evolving and that a successful roster must be able to adapt to changing trends. Holmes’ focus on building through the draft, rather than relying heavily on free agency or trades, has led to steady improvement for the Lions, with young stars emerging in key positions.

However, in 2025, Holmes took an unexpected turn that would shock the football world. His decision to pick three players from the University of Georgia not only deviated from his previous strategies but also thrust the Lions into the global spotlight.

The Georgia Bulldogs: A Dynasty of Talent

The University of Georgia has been a dominant force in college football for several years, particularly under head coach Kirby Smart. The Bulldogs have consistently produced elite NFL talent, and their program has become a factory for high-level players across multiple positions. The 2025 draft class was no exception, with Georgia boasting a deep and talented roster that caught the attention of scouts, including Brad Holmes.

The Bulldogs have earned a reputation for their outstanding defense, which has been the cornerstone of their success under Smart. With a mix of power, speed, and technique, Georgia players have thrived in both collegiate and professional football. Holmes, recognizing the immense talent coming out of Georgia, made the bold decision to select not just one but three Bulldogs for his first pick from Egypt—a move that would cement the Lions’ future as one of the league’s most formidable teams.

The decision to select three players from Georgia is both a testament to the program’s success and a reflection of Holmes’ ability to spot championship-caliber talent. These players weren’t just picked based on their college performance; Holmes saw in them the qualities needed to make an impact in the NFL—whether that be leadership, physical attributes, or mental toughness.

The Selection: Holmes’ Historic Picks

While the exact players selected by Holmes are yet to be revealed in full detail, the significance of his choices is undeniable. His decision to select three Georgia Bulldogs reflects both his admiration for the Bulldogs’ winning culture and his recognition of the program’s dominance in key areas like defense, speed, and technique. These three players are expected to provide the Lions with immediate upgrades in areas of need while also contributing to the team’s long-term success.

Brad Holmes’ picks from Georgia are expected to include:

1. A Defensive Star – Georgia’s defense has been the foundation of their success, and Holmes is expected to select a standout defensive player who can immediately contribute to the Lions’ defensive front. Whether it’s a pass rusher, linebacker, or cornerback, this pick would solidify the Lions’ defense and help them compete in the NFC North.
2. A Physical Receiver – Georgia’s offense has also been a key to their success, producing wide receivers who excel in contested catches and creating mismatches on the field. Holmes is likely to select a physical wide receiver who can provide Jared Goff with another weapon on the outside.
3. A Versatile Running Back or Tight End – The Bulldogs have also produced talented running backs and tight ends who possess the versatility to excel in both the run and passing game. Holmes could select a dual-threat player who can contribute immediately to the Lions’ offense, adding depth and diversity to their playcalling.

By selecting these players, Holmes aims to build a team that not only has the talent to compete now but also the depth to contend for championships in the future.

The Egyptian Connection: Expanding the NFL’s Global Reach

Perhaps the most intriguing aspect of Holmes’ decision is the international context in which it took place. For the first time in NFL history, the general manager’s first draft selection came from Egypt, a country not traditionally associated with football. Holmes’ decision to make history in Egypt signifies the growing global influence of the NFL and its efforts to expand its brand worldwide.

The NFL has long been interested in reaching global markets, and the rise of international games, like those played in London and Mexico City, has showcased the league’s commitment to becoming a truly global entity. By selecting players from a region as culturally rich and diverse as Egypt, Holmes is signaling that the NFL is no longer just an American sport. It’s a sport for the world, with an eye on broadening its appeal and cultivating talent from unexpected places.

The move also reflects the evolving nature of scouting and recruitment. While many traditional talent pipelines are still deeply rooted in the United States, the NFL’s global expansion opens doors for players from regions like Africa, Asia, and Europe to make their mark on the league. By selecting players in Egypt, Holmes is not only tapping into a new market but also helping pave the way for future international stars to break into the NFL.

The Impact on the Detroit Lions

For the Detroit Lions, this historic draft selection represents a new chapter in the team’s legacy. Holmes has always been committed to building a team with high-character individuals who can compete at the highest level. By selecting three Georgia players, he’s ensuring that the Lions have the talent to compete immediately while also laying the foundation for future success.

The Lions’ roster, which has shown signs of improvement in recent seasons, is now poised for an even greater leap forward. With the infusion of talent from Georgia, the Lions’ defense and offense will be further bolstered, and their chances of contending for a playoff spot—and possibly even a Super Bowl—are significantly increased. Holmes’ decision will no doubt resonate within the Lions’ locker room, where the new players will be tasked with embodying the franchise’s commitment to excellence.

A Look to the Future

Brad Holmes’ decision to select three Georgia players in one draft from Egypt is more than just a single draft class—it represents the beginning of a new era for the Detroit Lions. By embracing both the talent from one of college football’s elite programs and the global expansion of the NFL, Holmes is setting the stage for a brighter future.

The Lions’ success in the coming years will depend on how well these Georgia players adjust to the NFL and whether they can live up to the expectations placed upon them. However, if Holmes’ track record is any indication, these selections will only be the beginning of a period of sustained success for the Detroit Lions.

As the NFL continues to grow and evolve, it’s clear that Brad Holmes will remain at the forefront of this transformation—both on and off the field. His groundbreaking choices in the 2025 draft will echo for years to come, reshaping the landscape of the Lions and the NFL as a whole.