While Detroit Lions general manager Brad Holmes has had a stellar resume when it comes to his four draft classes, two third-round picks from the 2023 NFL Draft stand out as rare question marks: quarterback Hendon Hooker and defensive tackle Brodric Martin. While both picks were made with long-term improvements in mind—both were clear developmental prospects—as each enters Year 3, there are questions about both their present and future roles. On Monday, Holmes essentially offered a challenge to both.
For Hooker, the message was very clear and very direct.
“If Hendon wants to be the No.