GM Brad Holmes of Detroit explains UGA’s procedures and the reasons behind his three Bulldog draft selections this season.

The 2025 NFL Draft was a significant moment for the Detroit Lions and their general manager, Brad Holmes. Among the most talked-about decisions for Holmes was his choice to select three players from the University of Georgia, a school renowned for its dominant football program under head coach Kirby Smart. These selections have sparked considerable attention from fans and analysts alike, and Holmes recently spoke in-depth about the reasoning behind his picks and the importance of UGA’s procedures in his decision-making process.

Georgia’s football program has been a powerhouse in recent years, with the Bulldogs winning the College Football Playoff National Championship in both 2022 and 2023, and regularly producing elite NFL talent. The school’s success, especially on defense, has led to an impressive pipeline of players entering the NFL each year. For Brad Holmes, a former scout with the Los Angeles Rams, the University of Georgia has become a critical stop when assessing potential draft prospects. This year, Holmes chose three Georgia players in the 2025 draft, including standout defensive players and a promising offensive talent. Understanding the reasoning behind these selections requires a deeper dive into Holmes’ evaluation process and the significance of Georgia’s program.

The Detroit Lions’ Rebuilding Strategy

Before delving into the specifics of the Georgia players selected, it’s important to understand the broader context of the Detroit Lions’ draft strategy. The Lions, under Holmes’ leadership, have been steadily rebuilding and striving to build a competitive team. While Detroit has long struggled with consistency, Holmes has proven to be a sharp evaluator of talent, particularly through his background as a former scout for the Rams, where he contributed to the team’s success and Super Bowl appearance.

Holmes’ approach to team building is grounded in securing foundational pieces—players who not only excel at their respective positions but who also possess leadership qualities and can impact the locker room and community. In the 2025 NFL Draft, his selections from Georgia reflect this philosophy. The Bulldogs’ players that Holmes chose embody the qualities of hard work, leadership, and resilience, making them ideal candidates to contribute immediately to the Lions’ culture.

Why Georgia?

Georgia’s football program has produced some of the most talented players in recent memory, including top-tier athletes like Jalen Carter, Travon Walker, and Jordan Davis. The Bulldogs have established a reputation for developing NFL-ready talent, particularly on the defensive side of the ball, which was a major factor in Holmes’ decision-making process.

But what specifically draws Holmes to Georgia? According to Holmes, it’s not just the talent—although that is certainly a significant part of the equation. Holmes places a strong emphasis on the culture and procedures that Georgia has instilled within its program. He has consistently praised Smart’s coaching staff for their ability to develop players who are not only technically sound but also mentally prepared for the demands of the NFL.

“Georgia has become one of the premier programs in the country for a reason,” Holmes said in a recent interview. “Kirby Smart and his staff have created a program that’s focused on discipline, technique, and mental toughness. Players who come out of Georgia are ready to contribute at the highest level because of the way they’re developed, both physically and mentally.”

In particular, Holmes emphasized the program’s ability to balance high-level competition with a commitment to preparation. “The SEC is one of the most competitive conferences in college football, and Georgia plays against the best every single week. That type of competition helps prepare players for the NFL. You know that when you select someone from Georgia, you’re getting someone who’s used to high-pressure situations and who has the ability to perform under those circumstances.”

Brad Holmes’ Three Georgia Selections in the 2025 NFL Draft

In the 2025 draft, Holmes selected three players from Georgia who he believes can make an immediate impact for the Lions. These selections speak to his trust in Georgia’s program and his belief in the players’ readiness to contribute at the professional level.

1. Jalen Carter – Defensive Tackle

Jalen Carter, a standout defensive tackle from Georgia, was widely regarded as one of the top prospects in the 2025 draft. The Lions selected Carter with the 6th overall pick, adding a dominant presence to their defensive line. Carter’s combination of size, strength, and quickness made him an ideal candidate to anchor the middle of the Lions’ defensive front.

Holmes has been transparent about Carter’s ability to contribute right away. “Jalen is a complete player. He’s not only a disruptor in the passing game but also a force against the run. His ability to command double teams and still make plays is something that translates directly to the NFL,” Holmes explained. “He’s a guy who can impact the game from day one, and we think he’ll be a cornerstone for our defensive line.”

Holmes also highlighted Carter’s leadership qualities, which were developed during his time at Georgia. “What impressed us most was Jalen’s work ethic and how he led by example on and off the field. He’s the type of player who wants to get better every single day, and that’s exactly what we need in Detroit.”

2. Nolan Smith – Edge Rusher

Another key selection for the Lions was Nolan Smith, an edge rusher known for his explosiveness and ability to disrupt quarterbacks. Smith, who was drafted with the 23rd overall pick, adds speed and athleticism to a Lions defense that has struggled to generate pressure in recent years. Holmes has expressed confidence that Smith can make an immediate impact as a pass rusher.

“Nolan is one of the most explosive athletes in this draft,” Holmes said. “His ability to get off the ball and create pressure is unmatched. We feel he can be a game-changer for us on the edge, and he complements the pieces we already have in place.”

Holmes also noted Smith’s versatility and his experience in Georgia’s system, which prepared him to adapt to various defensive schemes. “He’s used to playing in a high-pressure environment, facing some of the best offensive lines in the country. He’ll bring that same energy and intensity to the NFL, and we expect him to be an immediate contributor.”

3. Broderick Jones – Offensive Tackle

While the Lions’ defense has been a focal point of their recent drafts, Holmes also understands the importance of building a strong offensive line. That’s why the Lions selected Broderick Jones, an offensive tackle from Georgia, with the 44th overall pick in the second round. Jones is known for his physicality, strong technique, and ability to protect the quarterback.

“Broderick is a true technician at the tackle position,” Holmes said. “He’s played against some of the toughest pass rushers in college football and has consistently excelled. We’re confident he’ll come in and help protect our quarterback and open up running lanes for our offense.”

Holmes also praised Jones for his leadership and intelligence. “At Georgia, Broderick was a leader on the offensive line. He understands the game and has a high football IQ. Those are the types of qualities we look for in an offensive lineman.”

Why the Detroit Lions Believe in UGA’s Success

The selections of Carter, Smith, and Jones reflect Brad Holmes’ faith in Georgia’s program and his belief that the Bulldogs’ procedures are conducive to producing NFL-ready talent. But beyond the players themselves, Holmes also recognizes the overall culture that Georgia fosters, which aligns with the Lions’ philosophy.

“The Georgia program prepares players not just for football, but for life in the NFL. It’s about accountability, discipline, and mental toughness,” Holmes stated. “When we look at players from Georgia, we know they’ve been coached at the highest level. They’ve been tested in one of the most competitive environments in college football, and they understand the demands of playing at the next level.”

Holmes also pointed to the leadership qualities that Georgia players bring to the table. “It’s not just about talent. The guys we drafted from Georgia are leaders. They understand how to bring their best every single day, and they know what it takes to win. That’s the type of culture we’re building here in Detroit.”

Brad Holmes’ decision to select three players from the University of Georgia in the 2025 NFL Draft highlights his confidence in the Bulldogs’ program and his commitment to building a team with high-level talent and strong leadership. From Jalen Carter’s dominance on the defensive line to Nolan Smith’s explosiveness as an edge rusher and Broderick Jones’ technical prowess on the offensive line, the Lions’ picks from Georgia show that Holmes is focused on adding players who can contribute immediately and make an impact in the long term.

As the Lions continue to rebuild and strive for success, these selections underscore Holmes’ strategic approach to the draft. By adding players who not only possess elite talent but also fit the Lions’ culture of discipline and leadership, Holmes is positioning the team for sustained success in the years to come.