Jahmyr Gibbs and the Detroit Lions finalized a three-year contract extension worth $67.5 million, with potential incentives boosting the total to $75.75 million. The deal includes $51.5 million guaranteed and an average annual value of approximately $22.5 million, making Gibbs the highest-paid running back in NFL history on average per season [1, 2, 3].
Gibbs has been a standout since entering the league, scoring 49 touchdowns over his first three NFL seasons, more than any running back in league history during that span [1, 2]. He is also just the second player in NFL history to average at least 5.0 yards per carry in each of his first three seasons with a minimum of 150 touches [1]. In addition, Gibbs has earned Pro Bowl selections in all three seasons of his career [2].
The Lions traded longtime running back David Montgomery to the Houston Texans in March 2026, clearing the way for Gibbs to become the undisputed starter [2]. Ahead of the 2026 season, Detroit also hired offensive coordinator Drew Petzing, aiming to bolster their offensive schemes to maximize Gibbs’ impact [2].
Detroit has committed heavily to retaining young talent, extending contracts for multiple key draft picks including Gibbs, Aidan Hutchinson, Noah Campbell, Amon-Ra St. Brown, Penei Sewell, Jameson Williams, Josh McNeill, and Nicholas Joseph. The total financial commitment to these players now exceeds $800 million [3].
The Lions finished the 2025 season with a 9-8 record but missed the playoffs [1, 2, 3]. The new contract for Gibbs comes as Detroit continues restructuring and investing in its core players to build a stronger roster.
Gibbs’ new deal was agreed on August 13, 2026, ahead of the upcoming NFL season, positioning him as a central piece of the Lions’ offense for at least the next three years [2, 3].
