The Detroit Lions caught fans and analysts off guard with their third-round pick in the NFL draft. General manager Brad Holmes traded up 32 spots—from No. 102 to No. 70—to select Arkansas wide receiver Isaac TeSlaa, a move many questioned.

To grab TeSlaa at 70 overall, Detroit gave up its 2025 third-round pick and two third-rounders in 2026. In return, the Lions got the receiver plus sixth-round picks in 2025 and 2026. Critics called the deal a misstep, arguing Detroit paid too much for an under-the-radar prospect. But Holmes has defended the move.

When asked about his favorite 2025 draft pick, Holmes used the chance to back TeSlaa. “I love all of them… I’ll say this: the pick that probably raised the most eyebrows was Isaac TeSlaa. But he was my favorite wide receiver in the draft,” Holmes told Kevin Patra of NFL.com.

“I’m not claiming he was the best wideout in the draft. But favorite? Absolutely,” Holmes said.

While the Lions prioritize tape over measurables, TeSlaa checks the physical boxes. At 23, he’s 6’4″, 214 pounds, clocked a 4.43 40-yard dash, and posted the top athleticism score among wide receivers at the Combine.

Still, TeSlaa’s college stats were modest. After transferring from Hillsdale to Arkansas, he totaled 62 catches, 897 yards, and five touchdowns in two seasons with the Razorbacks.

Despite the steep cost and a C+ grade for the selection, Holmes may deserve trust. Since taking over in 2021, he’s helped lead a Lions turnaround. That year, they went 3-13-1 and missed the playoffs for the fifth straight season.

Over the past two years, Holmes and coach Dan Campbell have built a contender. Detroit finished 15-2 in 2024, tying for the NFL’s best record. Though the playoff run was short, the team’s talent is clear. Whether TeSlaa was worth the price remains to be seen.