The NFL announced last week that the 2024 salary cap would be set at $255.4 million, $10 million higher than some projections. This bump in the salary cap provides teams with additional flexibility in managing their budgets, potentially altering their approach to free agency.

Holmes emphasized that while the increased budget will not drastically change the Lions' internal plans for re-signings and extensions, it could have a significant impact on their pursuit of external free agents. With a healthy budget of approximately $55 million, the Lions may now consider adding more players to their target list in the external market.

When discussing the team's strategy for acquiring external talent in free agency, Holmes highlighted the importance of being selective and cautious. He emphasized that the goal is not to chase after big-name players for the sake of headlines but to construct a competitive team that can perform well throughout the season, rather than just in March.

Holmes also addressed the perception that the Lions are just one player away from a championship, refuting the idea that a single player can dramatically change the team's fortunes. He stressed the importance of a comprehensive team-building approach and planning for long-term success rather than short-term fixes.

Additionally, Holmes mentioned that the Lions will continue to prioritize drafting based on talent over need, while acknowledging that free agency is typically more focused on addressing immediate roster gaps. He expressed confidence in kicker Michael Badgley but indicated that there would be competition at the position during the offseason.

Looking ahead, Holmes emphasized the value of character evaluations during the NFL Combine process, highlighting the importance of gaining insight into players' personalities and work ethic beyond just their athletic abilities. While Holmes did not provide updates on contract negotiations, he signaled that the team has a clear direction for upcoming player extensions and roster decisions.