The Detroit Lions have used this offseason to retool the roster after failing to make the playoffs in 2025. Free agency and the NFL draft were the two biggest outlets to improve the team, but it was very important to take care of the guys inside the building.
On Thursday, NFL Network's Ian Rapoport revealed that the Lions and linebacker Jack Campbell agreed to terms on a four-year contract. That deal keeps him locked up through 2030 and allows a building block to stick around.
That was a high priority on Detroit's to-do list, and with that handled, the Lions have to flip their attention elsewhere. And running back Jahmyr Gibbs is likely the next player who gets extended.
Jahmyr Gibbs has to be excited after Lions give Jack Campbell an extension
The Lions also have Brian Branch and Sam LaPorta from that 2023 class who are eligible for extensions, but both players are coming back from injuries. Detroit may look to hold off there, but Gibbs has been an absolute superstar for them.
Through three seasons, Gibbs has racked up 3,580 rushing yards and 39 rushing touchdowns. As a receiver, he has 181 receptions for 1,449 receiving yards and 10 receiving scores. He has also been a Pro Bowler for the last three seasons. It's no secret that Gibbs is one of the focal points of the offense, and Detroit knows the longer they wait, the price will only increase.
In the month of May alone, two running backs got extended. The New York Jets gave Breece Hall a three-year, $45.75 million extension that featured $29 million fully guaranteed. Shortly after, the Miami Dolphins handed De'Von Achane a four-year, $64 million extension and $32 million guaranteed.
Hall ($14.5 million AAV) and Achane ($16 million AAV) both increased their salaries, and the longer the Lions wait, the higher the price goes, especially since Gibbs has been more productive than both players.
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Bijan Robinson of the Atlanta Falcons is the next star running back, outside of Gibbs, who is due for a new deal. Since stepping foot in the NFL, Robinson ranks first in the NFL in yards from scrimmage and plays of 10+ yards from running backs. Gibbs ranks 3rd and 2nd in those categories, respectively, per Zachary Pereles of CBS Sports.
Robinson will easily command $20 million plus on his new deal, which is likely what Gibbs wants. If the Lions decide to wait until Robinson gets extended, the price on Gibbs' deal will only go up. Detroit would be wise to hurry up and get the extension with Gibbs done. It will save them some money in the long run while also keeping one of their best players around and happy for the foreseeable future.
With Campbell taken care of, the attention should pivot over to Gibbs. And general manager Brad Holmes likely knows it.
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