Even though the Detroit Lions front office is getting criticized by the fanbase for its lack of bold moves, similar to trading for Myles Garrett, it's hard to argue that GM Brad Holmes hasn't done a solid job during his tenure.
The front office has a clear team-building strategy. They believe in their draft boards. Once they identify talent, they aggressively pursue it. Then, they develop the talent and retain it. They don't like to rush the process or take shortcuts. They trust their scouting and evaluation perhaps more than any other team in the league.
Despite the postseason success not being there so far, the Lions have been able to build a sustainable winner during the Brad Holmes era. So, the front office has certainly been a strength for the Lions over the last five years.
Lions hire former Dolphins GM Chris Grier
The Lions just added to this already high-level front office on Wednesday. ESPN's Adam Schefter reported that Detroit was hiring former Miami Dolphins general manager Chris Grier as a personnel executive.
Whether Grier will join the front office or replace one of the executives remains to be seen. Former Chiefs and Browns GM John Dorsey has been the senior personnel executive since January 2021.
Grier is as experienced as they come. He served ten seasons as the lead executive of the Dolphins until his firing following a 2-7 start to the 2025 season. Before getting hired as the GM, he spent 16 years in Miami, working in different roles, including scout and director of college scouting. This is also where Grier and Dan Campbell crossed paths.
Campbell was the interim head coach to finish the 2015 season in Miami. Grier interviewed Campbell for the head coaching gig, but eventually hired Adam Gase over him. This led Campbell to join the Saints under Sean Payton.
Scouting is the area where the 56-year-old will help the most in Detroit. Grier has a positive track record in drafting, including Laremy Tunsil, Jaylen Waddle, Jalen Phillips, Andrew Van Ginkel, and De'Von Achane. The failed bet on Tua Tagovailoa was probably the biggest reason the Dolphins ultimately came up short over the years.
He has made aggressive trades during his tenure in Miami, like acquiring Kiko Alonso, Tyreek Hill, and Jalen Ramsey for significant draft capital, but these types of moves can be considered uncharacteristic of Detroit's modus operandi. It's safe to assume that Grier will be more relied upon for his talent evaluation.
Grier had five winning seasons in Miami and made the playoffs three times, but postseason success has eluded him. Now, he has a chance to finally get over the hump in Detroit.
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