Jahmyr Gibbs Admits Contract Process Was ‘Extremely Stressful’ After Signing Lions Extension

Jahmyr Gibbs spent stressful night leading up to his big contract extension with the Lions.

Jahmyr Gibbs Admits Contract Process Was ‘Extremely Stressful’ After Signing Lions Extension

Jahmyr Gibbs (Image via IMAGO)

Jahmyr Gibbs became the Detroit Lions player to sign a contract extension within the past few years after quarterback Jared Goff, edge Aidan Hutchinson, wide receivers Amon-Ra St. Brown and Jameson Williams, and tackle Penei Sewell. But it wasn’t a smooth process for Gibbs.

The Lions drafted Gibbs 12th overall in 2023. Over the next three seasons, Gibbs established himself as one of the elite running backs of the current era. Although it’s only Gibbs’ fourth year in the league, the Lions activated his fifth-year option. It meant that at some point they would give him an extension. However, they took their sweet time announcing it.

Gibbs felt a sense of relief after the Lions finally made it official on Thursday.

This process has been extremely stressful. I just wanted to play ball. I missed being out there with my teammates and my coaches and it’s just fun being out there now with my pads. It feels a lot better.

Jahmyr Gibbs told Lions beat writer Tim Twentymen

Gibbs signed a three-year, $67.5 million deal that could be worth up to $75.75 million. According to Spotrac, that deal includes $51.5 million in guaranteed money.

For a while, it seemed the negotiations process might drag on right up to the opening week of the season. Per reports, Gibbs missed the first week of training camp, which many assumed was because of the contract situation. However, head coach Dan Campbell explained Gibbs was busy nursing a minor back problem. Regardless, he eventually got the bag.

The Lions waited until Bijan Robinson settled his transaction with the Atlanta Falcons. Robinson penned a three-year extension, worth up to $75 million.

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Jahmyr Gibbs announced his goal after signing the contract extension

Gibbs shared the backfield with David Montgomery in his first three years in Detroit. In year two, the former Alabama rusher overtook Montgomery as the starter. He racked up 250 rushes for 1412 yards and finished as the rushing touchdown leader with 16 scores. Additionally, he caught 52 passes for 517 yards and scored 4 touchdowns.

Jahmyr Gibbs Admits Contract Process Was ‘Extremely Stressful’ After Signing Lions Extension
Jahmyr Gibbs (Image via IMAGO)

While his rushing numbers marginally went down, he tallied a better receiving season last year. Gibbs had 243 rushes for 1223 yards and scored 13 touchdowns. He caught 77 passes for 616 yards and scored 5 touchdowns.

After witnessing Gibbs’ growth, the Lions decided to hand him the RB1 duty for good. For that reason, they parted ways with Montgomery and added two-time Super Bowl champion Isiah Pacheco as Gibbs’ backup.

With the RB room settled and contracts extended, Gibbs only has one goal in his mind. He wants a ring.

I just want to win a Super Bowl with this team and do whatever it takes [to accomplish that].

Jahmyr Gibbs said

Despite his impressive numbers, Gibbs must have been disappointed with the way the Lions ended their 2025 campaign. After securing consecutive NFC North crowns, the Lions not only missed the playoffs, but they also finished at the bottom of the division despite sharing an identical 9-8 record with the Minnesota Vikings.

2026 season promises to be a chance for the Lions to get back in the playoffs. They have drawn the sixth-easiest schedule, which kicks off by hosting the New Orleans Saints in week one.

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