Gibbs was on the field Sunday and that matters
Jahmyr Gibbs showed up to the practice field Sunday. He was not in pads. He did not take reps. He did not do drills. But he was there, standing on the grass at Allen Park in front of everyone, which is more than he had done during the first few days of camp when he stayed inside the building.
That is progress. That is momentum. That is the kind of thing that happens when two sides are close to getting a deal done.
And if you are paying attention to what is happening down in Atlanta, you can start to see the exact dollar figure Brad Holmes is probably working with right now.
The Bijan Robinson extension could set the market
The Falcons are reportedly working on a contract extension for running back Bijan Robinson. ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler said Atlanta hopes Robinson is next in line after locking up their three-year starter at guard on Saturday.
Word is Robinson is looking for around $23 million per year. That would put him roughly $3 million above what Saquon Barkley makes with the Eagles at $20.6 million annually.
So what does that mean for Gibbs?
It probably means more. We are likely talking about $25 million per year, maybe higher. That would make Jahmyr Gibbs the highest paid running back in NFL history.
And honestly? He has earned it.
The Lions know exactly what they have
Detroit has told us over and over again how important Gibbs is to this offense. He is the bell cow. The offense looks completely different when he is on the field versus when he is not. That is not hype. That is observable reality.
Gibbs has all the leverage here and the Lions front office knows it. They need him back in pads. They need him getting reps. They need this thing wrapped up before it becomes a distraction that bleeds into the regular season.
Monday is the next big test. That is when pads come on at camp. Will Gibbs be out there again? Will he be dressed? Will he be practicing?
Pay attention this week because it feels like something is about to break loose. The Robinson deal in Atlanta could finalize the market. Gibbs could get his extension shortly after. And then we can all stop refreshing Twitter every five minutes hoping for contract news.
This has been a long time coming. Brad Holmes does not mess around when it comes to taking care of his own guys. Gibbs is one of the cornerstones of this offense and one of the most dynamic playmakers in the entire league. Lock him up. Pay the man. Let’s get back to football.
Do you think $25 million per year is too much for a running back or do you think Gibbs is worth every damn penny? Drop your take below.
