The Detroit Lionsโ recent NFL draft revealed a strong preference for athletes from the University of Georgia, as general manager Brad Holmes selected three Bulldogs in total, including Tate Ratledge, Dan Jackson, and Dominic Lovett. This decision was influenced by Holmesโs extensive experience scouting in the Southeast while living in Atlanta, Georgia. His familiarity with the Georgia Bulldogsโ football program, known for its demanding practices and strong energy, played a significant role in these selections.
โThe intensity, physicality, and tempo of their practices are unlike anything else,โ Holmes shared, drawing comparisons to Alabama under Nick Saban. Despite this inclination towards Georgia players, the Lions have also chosen athletes from renowned programs like Iowa and Alabama in previous drafts. This year, they included Tyleik Williams from Ohio State in their roster, chosen 28th overall in the first round.
In a remarkable story, the Lions also drafted Ahmed Hassanein, the first Egyptian to be drafted into the NFL, as their sixth-round pick, 196th overall. Hassanein arrived in the United States seven years ago, not knowing English or having any experience with football. His commitment and hard work caught the Lionsโ attention, and he expressed immense gratitude for this opportunity. With aspirations to fill a defensive role for the team, Hassanein credits his unwavering belief in those who stood by him, notably Lionsโ head coach Dan Campbell.
Another draft highlight involved Arkansas wide receiver Isaac TeSlaa, a Michigan native who has long dreamt of playing for his hometown team. The Lions granted his wish by drafting him 70th overall, a pick obtained through a trade with Jacksonville. TeSlaa started his career at Hillsdale College before moving to Arkansas, and his connection with the Lions was palpable even during pre-draft visits.
Adding to the mix, Tate Ratledge found himself drafted by the Lions with the 57th overall pick, a selection for which Detroit traded up. Interestingly, Ratledge, who once got a tattoo of lions, spoke of this occurrence as a significant twist of fate.
Trades were a strategic aspect of this yearโs draft as Holmes conducted multiple such deals, including moves from the 60th to the 57th, the 102nd to the 70th, and the 182nd to the 171st picks, where Miles Frazier of LSU was chosen. Over five years, Holmesโs inclination for dealing has amounted to 16 trades, reflecting his tactical approach to roster building.
On the final day of the draft, Lions staffers paid homage to Brad Holmes by wearing his North Carolina A&T jersey, numbered 95. This gesture not only honored Holmesโs journey from college athlete to NFL decision-maker but also acknowledged his upcoming role as commencement speaker at his alma mater, where he will discuss the universityโs influence in his career path.