Latest Rumors on Jahmyr Gibbs Contract, What Is Timeline for Lions RB to Sign Deal?

The Detroit Lions and star running back Jahmyr Gibbs could hammer out an extension following the 2025 NFL season, according to NFL Network's Ian Rapoport.

Rapoport noted Gibbs' fifth-year option in 2027 will be worth more than $14 million as he's a multi-time Pro Bowler. That could help he and the Lions set the terms of his next contract.

Gibbs has run for 2,363 yards and 26 touchdowns while catching 100 passes for 896 yards and seven scores since 2024. He has proven to be both an elite option on the ground and a consistent receiver out of the backfield.

Gibbs' 69-Yard TD in OT 🔥

00:29

That versatility will serve the 23-year-old well on his next contract.

The Philadelphia Eagles' Saquon Barkley ($20.6 million) and San Francisco 49ers' Christian McCaffrey ($19 million) are the two highest-paid running backs in the NFL. Baltimore Ravens star Derrick Henry is a somewhat distant third at $15 million.

If Gibbs doesn't overtake Barkley on the list, then he should at least land somewhere in the $18-$20 million range.

The Lions might try to drive a hard bargain, though, because they've handed out so many big extensions already. Quarterback Jared Goff, defensive end Aidan Hutchinson, wide receiver Amon-Ra St. Brown and offensive tackle Penei Sewell are all getting more than $100 million overall, and Detroit has eight players who average $20 million or more annually.

Gibbs isn't the only young star headed for a nice payday, either. Tight end Sam LaPorta, linebacker Jack Campbell and safety Brian Branch were also members of the 2023 draft class and have become valuable starters.

Savvy general managers can seemingly find salary cap room where none exists, but difficult decisions inevitably come sooner or later. For Lions GM Brad Holmes, keeping this core together may be impossible.

It's easy to understand why Detroit would want to keep Gibbs beyond 2027. That might, however, all but seal the exit for another player who has been instrumental to the team's success.