NFL running backs have experienced a lucrative week with several major contracts, and Jahmyr Gibbs of the Detroit Lions has topped the list. On Thursday evening, Gibbs agreed to a three-year contract worth $67.5 million, with $51.5 million guaranteed, as announced by his agent Todd France on Instagram. This deal makes Gibbs the NFL’s highest-paid running back on an annual basis, averaging $22.5 million per season.
Impressive Performances
Gibbs has distinguished himself by transforming the running back role into a significant playmaking position for the Lions, reminiscent of Barry Sanders’ era in the 1990s. In his first three seasons, Gibbs has achieved 39 rushing touchdowns and 10 receiving touchdowns, leading the NFL with 20 total touchdowns from the line of scrimmage in 2024.
Recent Contract Developments
This contract comes shortly after Jonathan Taylor secured a two-year extension with the Indianapolis Colts, averaging $22 million annually. Additionally, Bijan Robinson signed a contract with the Atlanta Falcons averaging $22.25 million per season. These deals have surpassed Saquon Barkley’s contract, which averaged $20.6 million per year and served as a standard since the 2025 offseason.
Detroit’s Bold Moves
For the Detroit Lions, Gibbs’ contract reflects their strategy of drafting effectively and investing in homegrown talent. The team has extended several key players, including Aidan Hutchinson, Jack Campbell, Amon-Ra St. Brown, Penei Sewell, Jameson Williams, Alim McNeill, and Kerby Joseph. The Lions leveraged this talent to win the NFC North in 2023, breaking a 32-year playoff victory drought and reaching the NFC championship that season. They achieved a franchise-record 15 wins in 2024 and made the playoffs again last season.
Ambitions and Financial Commitments
Despite these achievements, the ultimate goals of a Super Bowl participation and victory remain elusive for head coach Dan Campbell’s team. While they have excelled in drafting and nurturing talent, the financial stakes have greatly increased. With over $800 million in contract commitments for drafted players after the Gibbs deal, the Lions aim to secure the Super Bowl championship they are heavily investing in.
For more sports updates, visit Fox News. Follow Armando Salguero, Senior NFL Writer at OutKick, on X: @ARMANDOSALGUERO.
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