The Detroit Lions may have found the closest thing to a modern-day Barry Sanders, and the Hall of Famer himself seems convinced of it. As Jahmyr Gibbs continues his growth among the NFL's best running backs, Sanders expects even bigger achievements from the young star.

During a recent appearance alongside Jahmyr Gibbs in a discussion with Detroit Sports analyst Brad Galli, Sanders showed strong belief in Gibbs. He even compared Gibbs to the legends such as Gale Sayers, Adrian Peterson, and himself.

“I would say all the many years I’ve been retired, we haven’t had this type of player at running back. So it is a different experience for me going to the game," Sanders said. "I'm hoping that there's definitely more Barry Sanders records that're gonna fall here soon." 

The former Detroit Lions established several franchise and league records, many of which seemed untouchable for decades. Sanders is motivating Gibbs openly to chase his milestones.

Last season, Gibbs broke Sanders' record for the most touchdowns scored by a Lions player before turning 25. This achievement helped him make a remarkable start in Detroit and highlighted how quickly he has become one of the league's offensive weapons.

Gibbs holds multiple NFL records, including the first player in NFL history to score 47 touchdowns in his first three seasons, the only player to produce 70 scrimmage yards in 15 consecutive games, tying Sanders' record, and the set franchise rookie record by totaling at least 50 scrimmage yards in each of his 13 career games.

Many analysts believe he has the talent to compete for major individual honors while helping Detroit remain among the NFC contenders.

Analsyst Makes Prediction for Jahmyr Gibbs Ahead of 2026 Season

NFL Network analyst Kyle Brandt believes the young star is on the edge of a career-defining season. During his appearance on Good Morning Football, Brandt boldly predicted that Gibbs would win the NFL Offensive Player of the Year award in 2026.

“I think Jahmyr Gibbs is going to be Offensive Player of the Year this year…. In terms of an investment in a player, there is no one I’m all in on more than number 0 for the Detroit Lions,” Brandt said on the show on Wednesday.

Brandt expressed himself as being "all in" on the Lions running back. He suggested that Gibbs is ready to thrive as an offensive player.

After another productive campaign and expectations rising in Detroit, Gibbs enters the season as one of the dangerous playmakers.

What are your views on Jahmyr Gibbs? Let us know in the comments!

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Written by

Hetal Moleshri

Edited by

Zaid Quraishi