A strong free-agency class and another solid crop of rookies gave Lions general manager Brad Holmes another notch under his belt in building this team. The Lions went 15-2 this year thanks to plenty of pieces that were brought in by Holmes. As a result, Holmes was named 2024’s Executive of the Year by the Pro Football Writers of America.
Cornerback Carlton Davis and offensive guard Kevin Zeitler joined the Lions in free agency this past season — Davis was acquired via trade and rookie cornerback Terrion Arnold quickly grabbed a starting spot on defense. Sixth-round pick guard Christian Mahogany also saw playing time, including starting for an injured Kevin Zeitler in the Divisional Round.
Holmes deserves a lot of credit for turning this Lions roster around in such a short time, making good deals and taking chances that ultimately paid off, such as drafting Jahmyr Gibbs with a top-12 pick.
The season may not have ended the way the Lions wanted it to, but the core of the team is intact for a while, thanks to Holmes. He is very much deserving of this award.