Breaking News: Lions GM hints at ‘crazy’ method of scouting CFL, Mathieu Betts
Detroit Lions General Manager Brad Holmes discussed the challenges of evaluating CFL standout Mathieu Betts and alluded to their unconventional scouting methods. Before the onset of free agency, the Lions secured the services of Mathieu Betts, an edge rusher who had earned acclaim as the CFL’s “Most Outstanding Defensive Player” in 2023. This acquisition garnered considerable attention from Lions supporters, who recognized the team’s need for bolstering their pass rush.
Betts concluded the 2023 season with impressive statistics, tallying 18 sacks and four forced fumbles across 18 games for the BC Lions. Following the season, Betts underwent a private workout with the Detroit Lions in December. However, due to stringent CFL regulations, the Lions were unable to formalize his signing until a later date.
When the opportunity arose, Betts chose to join the Lions despite the absence of guaranteed financial incentives. His decision was influenced by his favorable impression of Detroit’s environment and the perceived chance to secure a spot on their 53-man roster.
Expressing his confidence in joining the Lions, Betts stated in a February video conference, “That’s the roster we were the most confident that I could crack.” He cited the positive atmosphere during his initial workout and the promising discussions with the team’s staff as factors in his decision.
The Lions reciprocated Betts’ enthusiasm, recognizing his tenacious playing style as a seamless fit within their team culture. General Manager Brad Holmes commended Betts’ performance, expressing eagerness to see how his abilities would translate to the NFL level. However, Holmes also tempered expectations, emphasizing the disparity in competition levels between the CFL and the NFL and the need for cautious evaluation.
Holmes likened the challenge of scouting CFL players to assessing prospects from smaller college programs, acknowledging the absence of opportunities like All-Star games for direct comparison against higher-caliber opponents. Despite the complexities, Holmes hinted at the Lions’ innovative approaches to evaluating such players, though he declined to divulge specifics.
While the Lions have primarily focused on drafting from collegiate ranks under Holmes’ leadership, they have previously found success with small-school prospects. As for Betts, he faces stiff competition to secure a spot on the Lions’ roster in 2024, competing against various players to fill vacant roles from the previous season.