Mere days after Atlanta Falcons running back Bijan Robinson set an NFL record with a contract extension, the Detroit Lions have officially set a new standard. The NFC North team has awarded running back Jahmyr Gibbs with a three-year contract extension worth up to $75.75 million, a deal that includes $51.5 million in guaranteed money.
This landmark contract provides Gibbs with an annual salary of $22.5 million, successfully surpassing Robinson's previous record of $22.25 million. Indianapolis Colts star Jonathan Taylor also remains in this elite group, having previously signed an extension worth $44 million, which nets him $22 million annually over two seasons.
Gibbs' Impact on the Lions Offense
A first-round pick in the 2023 NFL Draft, Gibbs has served as the primary engine of the Lions' offensive attack. Throughout his tenure, he has played in 49 games, accumulating 3,580 rushing yards and 39 touchdowns. Notably, he led the NFL in 2024 with 16 rushing touchdowns. Beyond his ground game, Gibbs has proven to be a dual-purpose weapon, adding 1,449 receiving yards and 10 receiving touchdowns while playing a pivotal role in the team's two recent playoff appearances.
The roster landscape in Detroit is shifting, however. With David Montgomery no longer on the team following a trade to the Texans, the Lions have brought in former Chiefs running back Isiah Pacheco to serve as the new backup to Gibbs. These strategic moves come as the Lions look to reclaim dominance in the NFC North.
Championship Aspirations and Market Outlook
After winning the division in 2023 and 2024, the Lions missed the playoffs last season with a 9-8 record. Despite that setback, market sentiment remains high. Traders on Polymarket currently list the Lions as the favorites to win the NFC North with a 36% probability, followed by the Packers at 28%, the Bears at 22%, and the Vikings at 15%.
While confidence in their division title prospects is strong, the outlook for a Super Bowl run is more tempered. Traders currently place the Lions at a 4% chance to win the championship next season, trailing the Rams, who lead the rankings at 15%. Although the franchise has secured four championships in its history, those victories occurred prior to the 1970 AFL-NFL merger, and the team has yet to advance to a Super Bowl.