Detroit Lions running back Jahmyr Gibbs has returned to training camp practices while he awaits a new contract extension, according to Pride of Detroit. Gibbs had sat out the first six practices of training camp while participating only in meetings and weight room workouts, though Heavy noted he was also dealing with a minor injury.
Jahmyr Gibbs Returns to Practice Amid Ongoing Contract Talks
On Thursday, Gibbs appeared in full uniform to take part in the walk-through portion and warm-ups. When the team shifted into individual drills, he stepped off to the side to work with a trainer, signaling an acclimation process, as reported by Detroit Free Press.
Optimism Grows for a New Deal This Week
The return to the field coincides with growing optimism surrounding active contract negotiations. According to sports.yahoo.com, reporting from nytimes.com indicated that a deal could be finalized during the week.
NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport shared insight from Lions training camp regarding the discussions, stating to Heavy: They are working; the negotiations are active. There’s really no debate inside this organization about whether or not Jahmyr Gibbs deserves a deal.
Rapoport added, He is one of the best players in football. He is the most explosive player in this Lions offense, and he is one of the best running backs in the NFL. They are going to pay him.
Lions coach Dan Campbell expressed confidence about the situation, noting that a resolution would come in due time. I think it certainly’s not going to hurt,
Campbell said regarding other running back extensions setting a market, while adding, Every day that goes by, that’s another day that you feel like you miss with him and getting him out there with the guys and him doing his part. But, there again, it’ll get done when it gets done.
General manager Brad Holmes also commented on the dialogue, stating: Look, obviously we love Jahmyr. Me and Dan (Campbell) have always been believers in that one-two punch. I just think that’s how this league is going now. But, you know, we’re having dialogue. We’ll see where it goes.
Shifting Running Back Market and Player Background
Gibbs’ ongoing negotiations follow a series of major market resets across the NFL. Atlanta Falcons running back Bijan Robinson recently landed a three-year extension worth $22.25 million per year with $51 million guaranteed, making him the highest-paid running back in the league. Concurrently, Jonathan Taylor secured a deal with the Indianapolis Colts averaging $22 million annually, making him the second-highest-paid at the position.
Entering his fourth year with two remaining years on his rookie contract, Gibbs boasts an impressive resume. He has recorded two consecutive 1,200-yard rushing seasons, holds three Pro Bowl selections, and holds the NFL record for the most touchdowns (49) in a player’s first three years.
When previously asked by reporters about his contract status and return timeline, Gibbs kept his answers brief. Only time will tell,
he said, and when asked if he needed a new contract before playing, he responded, Nah, it’s not about that.
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