For the first time in decades, the Lions headed into the 2023 NFL season with high expectations. They lived up to expectations and are currently in the midst of their most successful postseason run since 1991-92.
One of the primary reasons why Detroit has been able to do so? During Brad Holmes’ tenure as general manager, they frequently won the NFL draft, acquiring mid-round steals and high-potential starters outside of the first round.
The Lions’ 2023 draft class was not exactly greeted with excitement after the picks were announced. Some questioned why Detroit wasn’t focusing more on acquiring players for important positions while having two top-20 picks. Others questioned whether they had overreached with a few selections, particularly the team’s two first-round decisions.
However, Detroit’s rookies have demonstrated that they are more than capable of competing in the NFL. Four have already evolved into high-quality starters, and the group may include a couple perennial Pro Bowlers.
Here’s a look at Holmes’ draft history with the Lions, beginning with the incredible haul he and his staff secured in the 2023 NFL Draft.
Lions Draft Picks 2023
Following trades, Detroit held two first-round picks, two second-round picks, two third-round picks, a fifth-round pick, and a seventh-round pick as it attempted to strengthen a club that had just missed the playoffs the previous season.
The Lions selected the players listed below with their respective draft picks.
| Round | Pick | Player |
| 1 | 12 | Jahmyr Gibbs, RB, Alabama |
| 1 | 18 | Jack Campbell, LB, Iowa |
| 2 | 34 | Sam LaPorta, TE, Iowa |
| 2 | 45 | Brian Branch, DB, Alabama |
| 3 | 68 | Hendon Hooker, QB, Tennessee |
| 3 | 96 | Brodric Martin, DT, Western Kentucky |
| 5 | 152 | Colby Sorsdal, OL, William & Mary |
| 7 | 219 | Antoine Green, WR, UNC |
Overall, the Lions selected four starters and a number of vital supporting players. Only Hooker did not play a game for the Lions this season, as he spent the most of his rookie season recovering from a ruptured ACL suffered in college.
Detroit’s first four picks emerged as potential long-term starters, playing major roles right away and contributing to one of the Lions’ best seasons in franchise history.
Lions rookie starters 2023
Jahmir Gibbs
The Lions stunned some by selecting Gibbs with the 12th overall pick in the 2023 NFL Draft. Few expected the organization to pursue a running back given some of the team’s other defensive concerns, but the decision has proven wise.
Gibbs had 1,261 scrimmage yards and 11 total touchdowns for the Lions as a rookie. He accomplished this despite splitting time with David Montgomery and appearing in only 15 games due to a lingering hamstring ailment.
