Two giant signs have emerged this weekend that point to Jahmyr Gibbs getting his deal from the Lions very, very soon
Two developments this weekend make a Jahmyr Gibbs extension with the Detroit Lions feel closer than ever
The Detroit Lions appear to be on the verge of locking up running back Jahmyr Gibbs, and two significant developments over the weekend suggest a deal could be imminent. Gibbs, who has been holding out for a new contract, showed up on the practice field Sunday at Lions training camp. On top of that, reports indicate the Atlanta Falcons and Bijan Robinson may finalize their extension first, which could set the table for Gibbs to surpass Robinson and become the highest-paid running back in NFL history.
Gibbs showing up on the field is a big deal
Now, let’s be clear. Gibbs didn’t participate on Sunday. He wasn’t in pads, he didn’t do any drills, and he didn’t get any reps. But he was there, out on the field in front of everybody. That’s a big step forward because the first few days of camp, he had been in the building but hadn’t actually come out to the field. His being out there is a strong signal that both sides are making progress and that a resolution is getting closer.
The Bijan Robinson deal could set Gibbs’ price tag
The second piece of this puzzle involves what’s happening in Atlanta. ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler reported that the Falcons are still working on a potential Bijan Robinson deal and hope he’s next after locking up their three-year starter at guard on Saturday.
The rumor going around is that Robinson is looking to get $23 million a year. That would put him about $3 million over what Philadelphia Eagles running back Saquon Barkley currently makes at $20.6 million in annual average value.
So what does that mean for Gibbs? It’s probably going to be more than that. I would venture we’re talking in the realm of $25 million a year. That is a significant number. It would make Gibbs the highest-paid running back who has ever played this game. But you can understand why.
The Lions know they need Gibbs
Gibbs has all the leverage in the world, and the Lions know it. Detroit tells us how important he is to their team constantly. He’s going to be the bell cow, and the offense is a night and day difference when he’s on the field versus when he’s not. It’s that simple.
They need to get this guy back in training camp. They need to get things rolling. And it looks like we are on the verge of finally getting that done.
Pay attention to everything that happens this week because it could be a massive week for both the Falcons and the Lions. Gibbs could be getting out there, getting the pads on, and getting to work. Monday is the big question. Will he be out there again? I believe that’s the day pads come on at camp. We’ll see what happens.
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