In declaring Jahmyr Gibbs would return to action Sunday against the Baltimore Ravens, Lions head coach Dan Campbell pulled no punches to declare how much the rookie would he relied on in banged-up backfield.
"He’s going to need to take the load of it,” Campbell said. “We’re just going to have to see where he’s at. I’d like to say we’re going to be careful with it, but the reality of it is we need him. So we’ll go as far as he can take us here, trying to be as smart as we can, but he’s gotta go. He’s ready
With David Montgomery (ribs) out, and Craig Reynolds coming out of last week's game with toe and hamstring issues, Gibbs will be the Lions' lead back on Sunday. We got a glimpse of what that looks like in Week 3 against the Atlanta Falcons, with Montgomery out due to a thigh injury, when Gibbs had 17 carries for 80 yards and played 60 percent of the offensive snaps.
Jahmyr Gibbs is looking forward to opportunity vs. Ravens, and for however long David Montgomery might be out
Speaking to reporters this week, Gibbs confirmed how he of course stayed involved in things despite being injured. He also noted the Lions' faith in him to take on a big role Sunday.
"I mean, I still would be in meetings and stuff going over everything. And then practice -- when practices starts, I would run out there," Gibbs explained. "After I get done running, I'm over there with the offense, probably talking with Saint or talking to Craig, D-Mo and all them."
"This week shows a lot, shows that they trust me," Gibbs said. "So, I take pride in that, to be trusted throughout the coaching staff and my teammates. So, thankful for them."
It seems likely Montgomery will also miss Week 8 against the Las Vegas Raiders, and return after the Lions' Week 9 bye. But Gibb is ready to answer the bell.