Lions GM Brad Holmes Shares Inspiring Message at North Carolina A&T Commencement

Detroit Lions general manager Brad Holmes returned to his alma mater, North Carolina A&T State University, over the weekend to give a heartfelt commencement address to the graduating class.

One of the most impactful parts of Holmes’ speech came when he referenced a life lesson inspired by a poem titled “Choose Your Hard.” In a brief but moving 2.5-minute clip, Holmes shared the following message:

“Life isn’t easy—something many of you already know. I came across a poem a few years back called ‘Choose Your Hard,’ and it really stuck with me. It says: ‘Marriage is difficult. So is divorce. Choose your hard. Living with obesity is tough, but so is staying fit. Choose your hard. Financial struggles are hard, but so is maintaining discipline with money. Choose your hard. Communicating clearly is challenging. But poor communication is, too. Choose your hard.’

“That quote struck me deeply. No matter what direction you take in life, there will be challenges. I remind our scouting team of this constantly. Putting in the effort, being detailed, and going the extra mile is tough. But cutting corners has its own consequences. Taking shortcuts may feel easier now, but eventually, life will catch up.”

Holmes’ message mirrors the gritty and determined culture the Lions have built. He took on the difficult task of helping rebuild Detroit’s football program from the ground up. The initial phase came with struggles—Holmes and head coach Dan Campbell started with a rough 4-19-1 record. But they stuck to the long-term vision and chose the tougher path. That perseverance paid off, as the Lions have since gone 35-9, secured two playoff victories, and now head into the 2025 season as one of the league’s top contenders.