Jahmyr Gibbs, Marcus Mariota Named 'Employees of the Week' After Strong Week 3 NFL Performances

Detroit Lions running back Jahmyr Gibbs and Washington Commanders quarterback Marcus Mariota were recognized as "Employees of the Week" by former NFL players Julian Edelman and Rob Gronkowski for their impressive performances in Week 3 of the NFL season. This marks the second time Gibbs has received the honor from Gronkowski.

Gronkowski selected Gibbs, who contributed 164 yards from scrimmage and three touchdowns in the Lions' 31-24 victory over the New York Jets. Gibbs recorded 99 rushing yards and two rushing touchdowns on 20 carries, alongside seven receptions for 65 yards and an 11-yard touchdown catch that secured the lead for Detroit in the fourth quarter. His performance brought his season total to six touchdowns in three games, moving him past Billy Sims on the Lions' all-time rushing touchdown list with 43, trailing only Barry Sanders.

Gronkowski had previously chosen Gibbs in Week 1, when the running back scored twice against the New Orleans Saints. Prior to the season, Gronkowski had predicted Gibbs would be a leading candidate for Offensive Player of the Year.

Edelman named Mariota his "Employee of the Week" after the quarterback completed 19 of 31 passes for 183 yards and three touchdowns with no turnovers in the Commanders' 33-31 win against the Seattle Seahawks. Mariota's three-touchdown performance was his first since 2022. He started the game in place of the injured Jayden Daniels, throwing touchdown passes to Rachaad White, Treylon Burks, and Terry McLaurin in rainy conditions.

Mariota and the Commanders are scheduled to play the Indianapolis Colts in London in Week 4. Gibbs and the Lions are set to face the Carolina Panthers.