Brad Holmes’ Journey: How North Carolina A&T Paved the Way for an NFL General Manager
Greensboro, NC – A recent spotlight on HBCU sports highlights the pivotal role North Carolina A&T State University played in Brad Holmes’ path to becoming the General Manager of the Detroit Lions. Holmes, a standout defensive tackle and cum laude graduate in journalism and mass communications from A&T, stands as a testament to the enduring impact of HBCUs on professional sports management.
Holmes’ leadership journey began on the football fields of Chamberlain High School in Tampa, Florida, where he attracted attention from several colleges. Despite offers from other HBCUs like Bethune-Cookman and Florida A&M, Holmes chose North Carolina A&T. This decision not only shaped his football career but also set him on a path to success in the NFL front office. “HBCUs are not just institutions; they are family,” Holmes once shared in an interview, reflecting on the tight-knit community and mentorship he experienced at A&T.
Holmes’ tenure at A&T was marked by academic excellence and athletic prowess. He played a crucial role on the Aggies’ football team, developing skills that would later serve him well in scouting and team management. His time at A&T also instilled in him a deep appreciation for the cultural significance of HBCUs. “I know what the struggle is with HBCUs in general, whether it’s funding and finances,” Holmes noted. “But I think HBCUs are a lot more prevalent now, and I believe figures like Deion Sanders have played a big part in that.”
The influence of HBCUs extends beyond the playing field, fostering environments where athletes can grow both as competitors and leaders. This legacy is evident in the numerous HBCU alumni who have made significant contributions to American sports, including NFL Hall of Famers like Walter Payton and Jerry Rice, who played for Jackson State and Mississippi Valley State, respectively. The integration of Black players into professional sports was a slow process, but by the 1960s and 70s, HBCU alumni were among the league’s most dominant stars. Today, over 200 HBCU athletes have played in the NFL, and they represent 10% of NFL Hall of Fame honorees.
Holmes’ commitment to HBCUs remains strong, as evidenced by his efforts to promote these institutions within the NFL. In 2022, he drafted James Houston, a talented linebacker from Jackson State, and hosted a panel discussion at Ford Field to introduce Detroit high school students to the opportunities available at HBCUs. His initiatives have not only highlighted the athletic talent emerging from these schools but also helped bridge the gap between HBCUs and mainstream sports media.
As Holmes continues to shape the Detroit Lions’ roster and operations, his connection to North Carolina A&T serves as a powerful reminder of the impact HBCUs have on professional sports. His journey is emblematic of the broader cultural significance of HBCU athletics, which go beyond sports to encapsulate the values of resilience, community, and leadership.
Looking ahead, the spotlight on Brad Holmes’ journey is likely to inspire a new generation of student-athletes considering HBCUs. As the NFL continues to evolve, the role of HBCUs in nurturing talent and leadership will remain crucial. With figures like Holmes at the forefront, the legacy of HBCU athletics will continue to grow, fostering a new era of leaders who embody the spirit of these historic institutions.
In the immediate future, Holmes will continue to face challenges in the competitive NFL landscape. However, his commitment to the HBCU community and his experience in the NFL front office position him well to navigate these challenges. As the Detroit Lions prepare for upcoming seasons, fans and HBCU enthusiasts alike will be watching closely to see how Holmes’ leadership influences the team’s performance and the broader HBCU sports ecosystem.