Jahmyr Gibbs Returns to Practice as Lions Contract Talks Continue

Detroit Lions running back Jahmyr Gibbs took a significant step toward resolving his contract standoff by returning to the practice field in full uniform during Thursday’s training camp session. Gibbs had sat out the first six practices of camp while participating only in meetings, walk-throughs, and weight room workouts. After taking part in the stretch and walk-through portions on Thursday, he moved to a side field to work individually with a trainer to begin an acclimation process.

The timing aligns with a report from The Athletic indicating that optimism surrounds the negotiations and that a long-term extension could be finalized before the end of the week. Gibbs, who has two years remaining on his rookie contract, has posted back-to-back 1,200-yard rushing seasons and holds the NFL record for the most touchdowns—49—in a player’s first three seasons.

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Gibbs’ return to the field arrives just days after a flurry of massive deals reset the running back market across the league. The Atlanta Falcons locked up Bijan Robinson with a three-year extension worth $22.25 million per year, making him the highest-paid running back in the NFL. Shortly after, the Indianapolis Colts extended Jonathan Taylor on a deal averaging $22 million annually.

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Based on annual salary data from Over The Cap, Robinson surpassed Saquon Barkley’s $20.6 million per year by earning $22.25 million annually.

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Despite missing physical reps during the opening week of camp, Gibbs maintained a constant presence in team meetings and film sessions.

“You guys know how I feel, how we feel about Gibbs and what the team feels about him, and I’ll leave it at that. Listen, all the other stuff — my job is to coach who’s out there right now, and I love the kid, but man, I’ve got a team to coach right now. And listen … at some point here, it’ll get done. It’s going to get done. I’m not even sweating it.”

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Dan Campbell, Detroit Lions head coach

NFL Network insider Ian Rapoport, speaking from Allen Park during the league’s Back Together Weekend coverage, emphasized that active discussions are ongoing and that no internal debate exists regarding Gibbs’ value to the franchise.

“They are working; the negotiations are active. There’s really no debate inside this organization about whether or not Jahmyr Gibbs deserves a deal. He is one of the best players in football. He is the most explosive player in this Lions offense, and he is one of the best running backs in the NFL. They are going to pay him. It’s just a matter of when and how much. These are the good problems to have… I expect it to get done. I don’t know when, but I do expect it to get done.”

Ian Rapoport, NFL Network insider

Rapoport also noted that Gibbs had been managing a minor back issue following his initial conditioning test, which contributed to his early absence from team drills alongside his pending contract status.

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Teammate Reactions and What Lies Ahead for Detroit

Teammates have voiced strong support for the three-time Pro Bowler as negotiations continue. Wide receiver Amon-Ra St. Brown noted that the locker room understands the business side of the sport, while running back Sione Vaki emphasized that Gibbs’ desire to be on the field remains entirely intact.

With Detroit’s first preseason game approaching, the return of their most explosive offensive weapon to the practice setting provides an immediate boost.