When running back Jahmyr Gibbs left Monday night's practice with what the team deemed to be a leg injury, there was automatic and natural concern for the Lions' young running back. A fairly quick subsequent report said he had a hamstring injury, with the severity unclear.
Gibbs having missed two games last year with a hamstring injury, and that he was held out of OTAs with an undisclosed soft tissue injury, added a layer of concern. The "Grade" of his hamstring strain, if it is one, would tell the tale in terms of time missed.
On Wednesday morning, when speaking about the injuries to Gibbs, Terrion Arnold and Ennis Rakestraw from Monday night's practice during an appearance on 97.1 The Ticket, head coach Dan Campbell broadly said "I think we're going to be fine."
During Tuesday night's episode of "The Insiders", in concert with his report about Arnold, NFL Network's Ian Rapoport echoed Campbell's sentiment about Gibbs, pointing to the idea he will be fine for the start of the season.
Jahmyr Gibbs injury update: Will he play in Week 1?
On Wednesday, NFL insider Jordan Schultz added to the positive trend regarding Gibbs' injury status.
"Good news on #Lions Pro Bowl RB Jahmyr Gibbs. Sources say the hamstring injury he suffered is not considered significant, but the team will be very cautious with rest and rehab to make sure he’s 100% healthy. My understanding is he should be ready for Week 1 vs the Rams."
Naturally, given how hamstring injuries can be so susceptible to setbacks and re-aggravation, the Lions will be very cautious with Gibbs to assure he's completely healthy for the start of the season. He probably wasn't going to play in either of the two remaining preseason games anyway, so that caution will be with his practice participation.
Those who have already taken Gibbs early (first round?) in a fantasy football draft can breathe easier now. And those who end up in a position to consider taking him don't have to be scared off of doing so if they wish to.