Paton Hired by Broncos, Holmes 'Favorite' to Land Lions GM Job

Read the latest update on the Detroit Lions' search for their next general manager.

A new favorite has possibly emerged to become the Detroit Lions' next general manager. 

After interviewing with Detroit last week for its vacancy, Minnesota Vikings assistant general manager George Paton has accepted the Denver Broncos GM job. 

Denver and Paton are reportedly finalizing a six-year contract.

"With Denver hiring George Paton as its GM, Brad Holmes becomes the favorite to become the Lions’ GM," ESPN NFL insider Adam Schefter tweeted Wednesday. 

NFL Network recently called Paton "one of the most universally respected personnel men in the entire NFL when speaking with the Broncos' official team site. He's been in the NFL since 2000 and with the Vikings for over a dozen years, working alongside GM Rick Spielman as Minnesota's assistant GM."

With Denver hiring George Paton as its GM, Brad Holmes becomes the favorite to become the Lions’ GM.

— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) January 13, 2021

With Paton joining Denver, the leader in the clubhouse to become Detroit's next general manager is reportedly Brad Holmes, the Rams' director of college scouting.

Holmes has completed his second interview with Detroit's front office. 

At this point, the Lions have interviewed 12 candidates for their open general manager position, with Holmes being the first to have received a second interview, according to the organization.

According to Albert Breer of Sports Illustrated's MMQB, Detroit is reportedly interested in providing Colts assistant general manager Ed Dodds, Saints assistant general manager of pro personnel Terry Fontenot and Saints assistant general manager of college personnel Jeff Ireland with second interviews, as well. 

Here is the updated list of candidates that have interviewed for general manager:

• Louis Riddick
• Jeff Ireland
• Brad Holmes
• George Paton 
• Scott Pioli 
• Thomas Dimitroff
• Ed Dodds
• Kyle O'Brien
• Lance Newmark
• Rob Lohman
• Rick Smith
• Terry Fontenot

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Brad Holmes Earns Second Interview with Detroit Lions for GM Position

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Why Darrell Bevell Is a Much Better Option for Lions than Marvin Lewis

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