For a relatively new general manager, Lions GM Brad Holmes has quickly learned how to play the NFL draft smoke game. Holmes, now in his second draft season, revealed that he has discussed trade possibilities involving the No. 2 overall pick in the 2022 NFL draft.
“We’ve had dialogue with a couple of teams,” Holmes told reporters on Tuesday in Florida. “I wouldn’t say it’s been a lot, but it has been a couple teams we’ve had some dialogue with.”
It’s smart of Holmes to put that out there — whether it’s factual or not. Stoking any possible trade fires is good business for the Lions, who might not be in love with any of the options at No. 2 any more than they are at, say, No. 5 or No. 10. Extracting maximum value for the pick is Holmes’ job, and he understands that it’s a marketable commodity.
He’s even let it be known the Lions are willing to deal without even knowing who the Jaguars select with the No. 1 pick.
“Definitely we could pull that trade off, if the other team is willing, before the draft,” Holmes added.
It might not amount to anything. Most preliminary draft deal discussions never advance beyond the kindling stages. However, trying to ignite interest in the pick is part of what Holmes needs to do. With no clear-cut choice at No. 2, there’s almost certainly some validity to Detroit’s willingness to part with the premium spot for more irons in the draft fire a little later on.
Give Holmes credit: he’s been consistent in his approach. Here’s what he said about the idea of trading out of No. 2 at the Senior Bowl in Mobile in February,
“I’m always open for whatever. We’re still in the early stages of it, we’ve got a good feel of the class, we’re at a much better place at this stage of the process than last year. But, still, we’ve got a lot more work to do. But, I’m never scared to move around, so we’re definitely open for business, always.”
Whether another team finds Holmes’ smoke intoxicating enough is largely out of the Lions’ control, but at least they’re making every effort to keep the fire burning bright.
