Detroit Lions GM search appears to be narrowed to 4 candidates
The Detroit Lions have done an extensive search for the general manager position, completing 12 candidate interviews, as well as inquiring about several others.
Now, based on multiple reports, they have taken the next step and narrowed the list to just four candidates: Brad Holmes (Los Angeles Rams’ director of college scouting), Ed Dodds (Colts’ assistant GM), Jeff Ireland (Saints’ Assistant GM, Formerly Dolphins GM), and Terry Fontenot (Saints’ VP/assistant GM of pro personnel).
In most years, this second round of interviews would be “contract on the table” interviews, meaning the team would likely offer them the job at the end of the meeting if they were interested. If there was no contract, the odds of them reaching a deal were slim.
But this is not a typical year.
It appears, with most initial interviews taking place virtually, it’s added another layer to the process. So this year’s next step involves a second round of interviews that would take place in person, but it is still a narrowing of options.
First up for these in-person interviews was Holmes, who completed his second interview on Wednesday. Who’s next? Well, that’s a bit muddled.
MMQB’s Albert Breer reported that “Detroit would like to get Dodds, Ireland, and Fontenot into the building before making a decision. Whether they’ll have the chance to do that, given all the balls in the air right now, is another question.”
Some of these questions center around availability. Because the Saints are still in the NFL Playoffs, neither Fontenot nor Ireland can interview a second time until they are eliminated or they reach the bye week ahead of the Super Bowl.
Dodds, who eligible to interview again at any time, just interviewed on Tuesday and the Lions may want more time to process his interview before scheduling a second. If he is going to get/take a second interview, logistics point to him being the next likely candidate to be scheduled.
The Lions are getting closer to a decision, but it doesn’t look like they’re going to rush this process.
Stay tuned to Lions Wire for daily updates as things continue to unfold.
