Detroit Lions GM Brad Holmes Returns to Alma Mater with Motivational Message for Graduates

Lions GM Brad Holmes Inspires Graduates with Powerful Message at Alma Mater

Over the weekend, Detroit Lions general manager Brad Holmes returned to his alma mater, North Carolina A&T State University, to deliver a moving commencement address. Speaking to the graduating class, Holmes shared a message centered on resilience and making intentional life choices — a theme drawn from a poem titled “Choose Your Hard.”

In a particularly impactful portion of his 2.5-minute clip, Holmes reflected:

“Life is hard — that’s no secret. But a few years ago, I came across a poem titled ‘Choose Your Hard.’ It went something like this:

Marriage is hard. Divorce is hard. Choose your hard.
Obesity is hard. Being fit is hard. Choose your hard.
Being in debt is hard. Financial discipline is hard. Choose your hard.
Communication is hard. Not communicating is hard. Choose your hard.

That message hit me like a ton of bricks. No matter what path you take, it won’t be easy. I remind our scouting team all the time — it’s tough to be meticulous and go the extra mile. But it’s also tough when you don’t. Shortcuts may feel good in the moment, but life will catch up to you.”

Holmes’ remarks align with the Lions’ organizational identity — one built on grit, perseverance, and taking the long road to success. He knows firsthand the value of choosing the “right hard.” Rebuilding the Lions wasn’t the easy path; the team struggled early, going 4-19-1 in Holmes’ and head coach Dan Campbell’s first 24 games. But that foundation laid the groundwork for an impressive turnaround. Since then, Detroit has gone 35-9, won multiple playoff games, and now enters the 2025 season as a top contender for the Super Bowl.

For those interested, Holmes’ full speech is available online, beginning at the 1:06:30 mark.

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