Barry Sanders, the legendary Detroit Lions running back, placed Jahmyr Gibbs among the greatest runners the NFL has ever seen, including MVP Adrian Peterson.

During an appearance on the Brad Galli Show, the Hall of Famer explained why the young Lions star reminds him of all-time great running backs.

"I see so many great running backs that have played this game in him," said Sanders. "It's like Gale Sayers, just that elusiveness. The suddenness of maybe Barry Sanders or Adrein Peterson."

Sanders connected the Lions running back to three different all-time greats. By mentioning all three, Sanders suggested Gibbs blends multiple elite traits in one package.

Gale Sayers is known for his breathtaking agility and open-field creativity, and Sanders for his unmatched lateral quickness. But Adrian Peterson's inclusion was surprising.

The former NFL MVP finished his career with nearly 15,000 rushing yards and holds many NFL records, including an MVP for the 2012 season.

In May 2016, the Minnesota Vikings announced he would be inducted into the franchise's Ring of Honor. And the ceremony would take place during halftime of a home game in the 2026 season. Peterson last played for the Seattle Seahawks in the 2021 season and has never officially retired.

Peterson, mentioned by Sanders, clearly meant how highly he views Gibbs. Gibbs broke the NFL record for most total touchdowns (49) by a player in his first three career seasons, surpassing Barry Sanders' record (47).

With his abilities, Gibbs appears to remain a cornerstone of the Lions' offense for years to come. If he continues this path, comparisons to legends may become more common.

NFL Analyst Makes Big Prediction For Lions Star Jahmyr Gibbs Ahead of 2026 Season

During a recent appearance on NFL Network's Good Morning Football, analyst Kyle Brandt predicted that Gibbs will 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. I think he is going nuclear, stratosphere," said Brandt on the show. "In terms of an investment in a player, there is no one I'm all in one more than number 0 for the Detroit Lions."

The prediction came following Gibbs' establishment as one of the league's most dangerous offensive players. Brandt suggested that Gibbs is ready to take another leap and become the centerpiece of Detroit's offense.

Gibbs has the talent to carry an offense at an elite level, as per Brandt. With the Lions entering the season, Gibbs will have every opportunity to justify the growing expectations.

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

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Written by

Hetal Moleshri

Edited by

Shubhi Rathore