Detroit, Michigan — General Manager Brad Holmes has transformed the Lions into a competitive force, enabling him to take calculated risks during the draft. This year, one of those risks came in the third round, as Holmes orchestrated a trade to move up in the draft to secure wide receiver Isaac TeSlaa from Arkansas.
Holmes traded the team’s 102nd pick, along with two third-round selections in 2026, to climb to the 70th spot, signaling his commitment to TeSlaa, who many analysts did not expect to be chosen so early. In addition to acquiring the promising receiver, the Lions managed to retrieve a couple of mid-round picks, making the trade multifaceted in its potential benefits.
TeSlaa stands out in stature, offering a new dimension to the Lions’ receiving corps, particularly in the slot position. His impressive performance at the NFL Combine caught Holmes’ attention, prompting him to adjust his evaluation of the player. Speaking on local radio, Holmes expressed his belief in TeSlaa: “The pick that was probably the most questioned, I would say, was Isaac TeSlaa. I can say that he was my favorite wide receiver in this draft.”
Undeniably, Holmes has met skepticism in the past regarding some of his selections. However, history shows that he has often succeeded despite those doubts. If this latest gamble pays off, the Lions could see a significant enhancement to their offensive strategy, positioning them favorably in an increasingly competitive league.
The Lions’ receiving unit has experienced a surge in talent through recent drafts and acquisitions, and the addition of TeSlaa could be a pivotal element in their ongoing evolution. Holmes has demonstrated a knack for identifying underappreciated talent, and TeSlaa could very well follow in the footsteps of previous late-round gems that have shaped the franchise.
As the season approaches, the anticipation around the Lions offense continues to build, with fans eager to see how TeSlaa integrates into the team’s scheme. His unique size and skill set may provide quarterback Jared Goff with additional options, potentially making the Lions’ aerial attack more dynamic.
Holmes’ draft strategy hints at a larger vision for the team, one that emphasizes versatility and depth at the receiver position. This could set a tone for how the Lions approach their next steps, both on and off the field, as they look to solidify their place in the league.
In a league where the window for success can be narrow, taking chances may be the key to defining the Lions’ future. With TeSlaa now in the fold, all eyes will be on how this bold move plays out in the coming season.