Detroit Lions running back Jahmyr Gibbs has agreed to a three-year contract extension worth $67.5 million, including $51.5 million in guaranteed money. Announced by his agent, Todd France, the deal makes Gibbs the highest-paid running back in the NFL on an annual average basis, with $22.5 million per season. This agreement follows a week of significant contract signings for running backs across the league.
Gibbs' new average annual value surpasses recent deals inked by Indianapolis Colts running back Jonathan Taylor, who agreed to a two-year extension averaging $22 million per season, and Atlanta Falcons running back Bijan Robinson, whose contract averages $22.25 million per season. These figures all exceed the previous benchmark set by Saquon Barkley, which averaged $20.6 million annually as of the 2025 offseason.
The Lions' extension of Gibbs highlights the team's strategy of drafting and retaining key players. Gibbs joins a group of drafted talents who have been extended, including Aidan Hutchinson, Jack Campbell, Amon-Ra St. Brown, Penei Sewell, Jameson Williams, Alim McNeill, and Kerby Joseph. This core group has contributed to the Lions' recent success, including winning the NFC North in 2023, ending a 32-year playoff victory drought, reaching the NFC Championship Game that postseason, achieving a franchise-record 15 wins in 2024, and making consecutive playoff appearances.
Gibbs, who has become a significant playmaking force for the Lions since entering the league, has recorded 39 rushing touchdowns and 10 receiving touchdowns in his first three seasons. He led the NFL with 20 total touchdowns from scrimmage in 2024. His impact has been compared to that of Lions legend Barry Sanders from the 1990s.
Despite the team's sustained regular-season success, the ultimate prize of a Super Bowl championship remains elusive for the Lions. The substantial financial commitments to their drafted and developed talent, now exceeding $800 million in total contract value following Gibbs' deal, place increased expectations on the team to contend for a Super Bowl title.