Detroit Lions running back Jahmyr Gibbs is going to get paid, no ifs, ands, or buts about it. It's just a matter of when and by whom.
According to ESPN's Adam Schefter on The Adam Schefter Podcast with co-host Ty Schmidt, that time is expected to be this summer via an extension with the Lions.
"To me, the group that I was watching going into the offseason was not wide receiver, where Jaxon Smith-Njigba already has been paid and where we think Puka Nacua also will get paid, but running back," Schefter said.
"Take a look at the running backs right now, Ty. Bijan Robinson, gonna cash in. Jahmyr Gibbs, gonna cash in. De'Von Achane, gonna cash in. There are going to be some huge running back deals that get done at some point this offseason. So, whereas we've already seen one big wide receiver deal, get ready for the parade of running backs because that's what's coming next."
Why the Lions can't afford to delay an extension for Jahmyr Gibbs
Both Gibbs and the Atlanta Falcons' Bijan Robinson are expected to sign market-setting deals. How much each gets paid will likely be dependent on who signs first, which is why it's important for general manager Brad Holmes to get the Gibbs deal done as soon as possible.
Money is only going to get tighter for the Lions once their current extensions kick in and potential extensions for other players, such as linebacker Jack Campbell and tight end Sam LaPorta, get done. Saving even a million dollars could make a difference down the road, like signing an additional depth piece at the veteran minimum.
For another reason why the Lions should extend Gibbs as soon as possible, look no further than the deal the Seattle Seahawks' Jaxon Smith-Njigba just signed. He's now the highest-paid WR in the league, coming off a Super Bowl title and an Offensive Player of the Year award.
Meanwhile, the Lions' WR duo of Amon-Ra St. Brown and Jameson Williams has already been extended. St. Brown, despite being a multi-time First-Team All-Pro WR, is the eighth-highest-paid WR in AAV at just over $30 million, which is over $12 million less than the one Smith-Njigba just signed. Not to mention $43 million less in guarantees. Williams isn't far behind at $26.66 AAV.
The inevitable Gibbs contract may feel like a tough pill to swallow for a position that is generally considered a low-value one, but not only does Gibbs deserve it, but the game is changing. Teams are desperate to find their Gibbs or Robinson, which is why the Las Vegas Raiders took Ashton Jeanty with the No. 6 pick in the 2025 NFL Draft, while Notre Dame's Jeremiyah Love will likely be a top-10 selection in 2026.
If Jeanty and Love reach similar levels as Gibbs and Robinson, imagine how much money they'll make in an even more inflated market than right now? Add in an ever-increasing salary cap each year, and a Gibbs deal today will eventually look just as good as St. Brown's deal does right now for WRs.
It does take two to tango. Gibbs' side of the negotiation could be playing chicken with Robinson and his agents in hoping the other signs first. Even so, Holmes has "gotta go fast" to extend "Sonic" before the RB market truly explodes this offseason.