Jahmyr Gibbs is officially the NFL’s highest-paid running back. After a historic start to his career, Detroit is betting big on its explosive young star.
Jahmyr Gibbs Officially Signs Extension With Lions, Becomes NFL’s Highest-Paid Running Back
Jahmyr Gibbs officially signed his contract extension with the Detroit Lions on Friday, finalizing a three-year, $67.5 million deal that could be worth up to $75.75 million. The contract includes $51.5 million guaranteed and makes Gibbs the highest-paid running back in the NFL by new-money average annual value.
The extension is well deserved for the three-time Pro Bowler, who has quickly become one of the league’s most explosive offensive weapons. His return to full practice is another major boost for Detroit as the Lions begin installing a new offense under offensive coordinator Drew Petzing.
General manager Brad Holmes has earned a reputation for locking up core players before they reach the open market, and Gibbs is the latest example.
Extensions handed out by the Lions
* Jahmyr Gibbs — 3 years, $67.5 million
* Aidan Hutchinson — 4 years, $180 million
* Jack Campbell — 4 years, $81 million
* Jared Goff — 4 years, $212 million
* Amon-Ra St. Brown — 4 years, $120.01 million
* Penei Sewell — 4 years, $112 million
* Jameson Williams — 3 years, $80 million
* Kerby Joseph — 4 years, $85 million
* Alim McNeill — 4 years, $97 million
Holmes may not be finished. Safety Brian Branch and tight end Sam LaPorta are both candidates for future extensions as Detroit continues building around its young core.
Highest-paid running backs by average annual value
* Jahmyr Gibbs — $22.5 million
* Bijan Robinson — $22.25 million
* Jonathan Taylor — $22 million
* Saquon Barkley — $20.6 million
* Christian McCaffrey — $19 million
* De’Von Achane — $16 million
* Derrick Henry — $15 million
* Breece Hall — $14.5 million
The running back market has surged this offseason, with Hall, Achane, Taylor, Robinson and now Gibbs all receiving lucrative extensions.
Next Gen Stats’ fastest ball carriers last season shows Gibbs is one of the most explosive players in the NFL.
1. Jonathan Taylor (Week 2) — 22.38 mph
2. Jahmyr Gibbs (Week 2) — 22.34 mph
3. Jahmyr Gibbs (Week 7) — 22.23 mph
4. Jahmyr Gibbs (Week 12) — 22.17 mph
Gibbs’ production has been historic. His 49 total touchdowns are the most by any player through his first three NFL seasons, surpassing Hall of Famer Barry Sanders, who scored 47.
Gibbs’ rankings through his first three seasons
* 49 total touchdowns — 1st
* 5.3 yards per carry — tied for 10th
* 39 rushing touchdowns — 7th
* 3,580 rushing yards — 22nd
* 176 rushing first downs — 25th
* 5,029 yards from scrimmage — 18th
With David Montgomery no longer on the roster, Gibbs is expected to become the clear featured back in Detroit’s offense and should handle a significantly larger workload in 2026.
One of his most memorable performances came against the New York Giants last season, when he totaled 264 yards and three touchdowns:
* 219 rushing yards and two rushing touchdowns
* 45 receiving yards and one receiving touchdown
Gibbs also delivered the game-winning 69-yard touchdown run in overtime.
Having Gibbs back with the team is a massive development for Detroit as the Lions look to reclaim the NFC North after a disappointing 9-8 season in 2025. If his early career production is any indication, the Lions are investing in a player capable of becoming one of the franchise’s all-time greats.
