The Detroit Lions started their training camp on Wednesday without one of their top players, running back Jahmyr Gibbs. The talented 24-year-old was absent from the Lions’ initial practice session as discussions around his potential contract extension continue.
Lions coach Dan Campbell addressed the situation, stating, “You guys know how we feel about Gibbs and all of our guys. This will kind of continue. It’ll come as it comes. I think that’s the best way to say it. This is both sides working through something, and we’ll take it as it comes, but that’s where it is.”
Gibbs attended the camp but was neither on the Physically Unable to Perform list nor the Non-Football Injury list. This suggests that his absence is likely due to holding out for a new contract.
Jahmyr Gibbs was selected by the Lions as the 12th overall pick in the 2023 NFL Draft. He quickly became a vital part of the team’s offense. In his debut season, he recorded 945 rushing yards and 10 touchdowns, along with 52 receptions for 316 yards and one additional touchdown over 15 games.
His performance reached new heights in 2024, as he rushed for 1,412 yards and 16 touchdowns, complemented by 52 catches for 517 yards and four touchdowns. Last season marked the first time Gibbs started every game. He accumulated 1,223 rushing yards and 13 touchdowns, catching 77 passes for 616 yards and five touchdowns across 17 games. His consistent excellence earned him Pro Bowl selections for each of his NFL seasons.
In a similar scenario, Atlanta Falcons’ prominent running back Bijan Robinson also missed his team’s first day of training camp. His absence was reported to be related to his contract as well.