NFL Analyst Backs Bold Jahmyr Gibbs Claim Following $14M Decision
December 21, 2025, Detroit, Michigan, USA: December 21 2025: Jahmyr Gibbs 0 during the Detroit Lions vs Pittsburgh Steelers at Ford Field in Detroit MI. Brook Ward / Apparent Media Group. Detroit USA - ZUMAa234 20251221_zsa_a234_205 Copyright: xAMGx
December 21, 2025, Detroit, Michigan, USA: December 21 2025: Jahmyr Gibbs 0 during the Detroit Lions vs Pittsburgh Steelers at Ford Field in Detroit MI. Brook Ward / Apparent Media Group. Detroit USA - ZUMAa234 20251221_zsa_a234_205 Copyright: xAMGx
Jahmyr Gibbs has been locked down by the Detroit Lions through the 2027 season via a fifth-year option worth $14.3 million. But as he enters the final year of his four-year deal, contract extension talks are rapidly gaining momentum.
According to an NFL analyst, Gibbs' performance in 2026 is set to bring those contract talks to a head.
"A couple of weeks ago, I said on this show that I think Jahmyr Gibbs is going to take a run at MVP this year," said Kyle Brandt, Good Morning Football host.
With David Montgomery now in Houston, Gibbs enters 2026 as Detroit's unquestioned offensive centerpiece.
DETROIT, MI - DECEMBER 04: Detroit Lions Running Back Jahmyr Gibbs 0 making moves on the outside during the game between Dallas Cowboys and Detroit Lions on December 4, 2025 at Ford Field in Detroit, MI /CSM Detroit United States - ZUMAc04_ 20251204_zma_c04_039 Copyright: xAllanxDranbergx
DETROIT, MI - DECEMBER 04: Detroit Lions Running Back Jahmyr Gibbs 0 making moves on the outside during the game between Dallas Cowboys and Detroit Lions on December 4, 2025 at Ford Field in Detroit, MI /CSM Detroit United States - ZUMAc04_ 20251204_zma_c04_039 Copyright: xAllanxDranbergx
"And I'm not talking about the Lions. I'm talking about the league. I believe in him that much. But nobody's believed in him more than you. I remember very well, he drafted him 12th overall in 2023," Brandt added.
His 2025 campaign wasn't the career-defining explosion he delivered in 2024, but it was far from a step back. Gibbs posted 243 rushing attempts for 1,223 yards and 13 touchdowns.
But what makes Gibbs special is that he is more than just a running back. Last season marked the best year of his career as a receiver: 77 receptions for 616 yards and five touchdowns.
Yet despite all of that production, the Lions haven't handed him a long-term deal.
Jahmyr Gibbs' Contract Extension Is Starting to Take Shape
Last week, the New York Jets signed running back Breece Hall to a three-year, $45.75 million contract extension, making him the third-highest paid player at his position in the league.
That deal instantly reshapes what Jahmyr Gibbs' next contract could look like.
"[Brad] Holmes is likely looking at starting talks with Gibbs' representatives at $19.5 million annually. A three-year, $58.5 million agreement could benefit both parties," John Maakaron of the Detroit Lions on SI reported Saturday.
That number slots Gibbs right in line with the market's elite tier. Philadelphia Eagles running back Saquon Barkley currently sits at $20.6 million per year, while San Francisco 49ers star Christian McCaffrey sits just below at $19 million annually.
With the running back market establishing a clear new ceiling, Detroit faces a narrow window to lock up its franchise cornerstone before the price climbs even further.
What are your thoughts? Let us know in the comments.
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Written by
Shubhi Rathore
Edited by
Shubhi Rathore