Detroit Lions, Jahmyr Gibbs agree to record-breaking contract extension
Gibbs Secures New Deal
The Detroit Lions and running back Jahmyr Gibbs have finalized a three-year, $67.5 million contract extension. The agreement, announced by Gibbs’ agent, Todd France, on Thursday, resolves a holdout that had kept Gibbs from participating in camp practices. This deal positions Gibbs as the highest-paid running back in the NFL based on average annual value, which stands at $22.5 million.
The extension includes $51.5 million in new guaranteed money and could reach up to $75.75 million with incentives. This contract surpasses the recent deal signed by Atlanta Falcons running back Bijan Robinson, which was valued at $66.75 million over three years.
Lions coach Dan Campbell had expressed anticipation for Gibbs’ return to the field following Robinson’s signing. Gibbs had not been present at the team’s initial three practices but made non-uniformed appearances on Sunday, Monday, and Tuesday. By Thursday, he participated in walk-throughs in full uniform, even before the new deal was officially completed.
Impact and Performance
Brad Holmes, the Lions’ general manager, faced criticism for selecting Gibbs with the No. 12 pick in the 2023 NFL Draft. However, Gibbs has since recorded 49 touchdowns in his first three seasons, surpassing Barry Sanders’ record of 47 for the most by any player in NFL history through their first three seasons. He also has 5,029 scrimmage yards, ranking eighth all-time for a player before turning 24 years old.
Gibbs has earned three Pro Bowl selections in as many seasons and is considered a favorite for Offensive Player of the Year entering the 2026 season. Last season, he was named NFC Offensive Player of the Week twice, in Weeks 10 and 12. He concluded the season with 18 total touchdowns, 1,223 rushing yards (5.0 yards per carry), and 616 receiving yards. This made him the eighth player in NFL history to achieve consecutive seasons with at least 1,800 scrimmage yards. Gibbs joins Sanders and Billy Sims as the only Lions running backs in the Super Bowl era to make at least three Pro Bowls.
In a Week 12 victory against the Giants, Gibbs delivered a notable performance, including a 49-yard touchdown run in the fourth quarter and a 69-yard touchdown run in overtime, contributing to Detroit’s 34-27 lead. Quarterback Jared Goff commented on the defensive reaction when Gibbs has the ball. Additionally, in a Week 7 win over the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Gibbs scored a 78-yard touchdown, his longest career run.
Future Role and Coaching Perspective
Following two seasons sharing the workload with David Montgomery, Gibbs became the primary rusher for Detroit last season. The Lions subsequently traded Montgomery to the Houston Texans this offseason, solidifying Gibbs’ role as the lead back. The team signed Isiah Pacheco to serve as the RB2, but he is not expected to have the same split workload that Montgomery did in 2023 and 2024.
Lions offensive coordinator Drew Petzing has expressed confidence in Gibbs despite his absence from practice during training camp. Petzing acknowledged the value of on-field work but stated that Gibbs’ experience and communication with coaches alleviate any concerns. He emphasized Gibbs’ obvious skill set and readiness for when it matters most.
Petzing also praised Pacheco’s work ethic and physical running style, noting his impressive performance since organized team activities. The offensive coordinator indicated that the Lions’ offense will prioritize toughness and adaptability, rather than relying on a single player or personnel package. Petzing believes that if Gibbs takes on a larger role in the passing game, as Campbell suggested, his potential for 2026 and beyond is extensive.
Gibbs’ career totals over 49 games include 675 carries for 3,580 rushing yards (5.3 yards per carry) and 39 rushing touchdowns. He has also recorded 181 receptions for 1,449 receiving yards and 10 receiving touchdowns on 228 targets. In 2025, over 17 games, he had 243 carries for 1,223 rushing yards and 13 touchdowns, along with 77 receptions for 616 receiving yards and 5 touchdowns. In 2024, also over 17 games, he posted 250 carries for 1,412 rushing yards and 16 touchdowns, with 52 receptions for 517 receiving yards and 4 touchdowns. His 2023 season, spanning 15 games, saw him accumulate 182 carries for 945 rushing yards and 10 touchdowns, plus 52 receptions for 316 receiving yards and 1 touchdown.
Bijan Robinson received congratulations on his contract from various individuals, including a text message from Matthew McConaughey shortly after the news broke.
Source: eu.detroitnews.com
