The Detroit Lions confirmed that they have completed a second interview, this time in person, with Los Angeles Rams’ director of college scouting Brad Holmes.
The Lions were reportedly focused on five general manager candidates for a second round of interviews, but after George Paton accepted a position with the Denver Broncos, the anticipated list now stands at a final four.
In addition to Holmes, the Lions are believed to be targeting Ed Dodds (Colts’ assistant GM), Jeff Ireland (Saints’ Assistant GM, Formerly Dolphins GM), and Terry Fontenot (Saints’ VP/assistant GM of pro personnel) as the candidates for a second interview.
Holmes, who also completed two rounds of interviews with the Atlanta Falcons, is believed to be a finalist for them as well. It has been suggested that he is in direct competition with Fontenot, who has also interviewed with them twice, for their open general manager position.
For the Lions, the field is narrowed but there are competing reports on who could be the front runner.
ESPN’s Adam Schefter reported that he believes Homles is “the favorite to become the Lions’ GM”. While NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport suggested both Holmes and Fontenot are “still considered a strong candidate for the Lions and Falcons” GM positions. And MMQB’s Albert Breer says that all four listed above are still being considered.