Since joining the Detroit Lions as a first-round pick in 2023, Jahmyr Gibbs has silenced his critics by making the Pro Bowl in each of his first three seasons. With over 1,800 yards from scrimmage in the past two seasons and consistently ranking among the league's top touchdown scorers, Gibbs has proven his worth.
This offseason, the Lions are expected to pick up Gibbs' fifth-year option by May 1. This move seems to be a precursor to what could be ongoing discussions about a contract extension.
Despite the NFL's general hesitation to invest heavily in running backs due to their typically short careers, the Lions seem ready to buck that trend. They view Gibbs as a cornerstone of their team and are prepared to compensate him accordingly.
Gibbs is on track to become one of the highest-paid running backs in the league, if not the highest. Conor Orr from SI.com predicts that the Lions will make Gibbs the richest running back in NFL history, setting new benchmarks in contract terms. This isn't just a bold prediction; it aligns with the Lions' history of making significant investments in key players.
Brad Holmes, the Lions' general manager, was with the Rams when they made Todd Gurley the highest-paid running back in 2018. Gurley was coming off two seasons with over 275 carries and led the league in rushing touchdowns.
However, his career was cut short by a chronic knee issue. Gibbs, on the other hand, has managed his workload with a mix of carries and receptions, and importantly, has no known chronic injuries.
Every major contract carries its risks, especially in the NFL, where injuries can change everything in an instant. However, Gibbs has demonstrated that he is a valuable asset, and Holmes is unlikely to shy away from investing in him, despite past experiences. Gibbs' consistent performance and health make him a worthy candidate for a long-term deal, securing his place as a key player for the Lions' future.