Jahmyr Gibbs has already established himself as one of the NFL’s elite running backs, and some of his early-career numbers suggest he’s off to the strongest start at the position for a Lions player since Barry Sanders.

Because of that trajectory, Detroit is beginning to look ahead to what a long-term deal for Gibbs might cost. ESPN’s Dan Graziano recently examined the situation and noted that the Lions aren’t under immediate pressure to act. Gibbs is signed through the 2026 season, and as a former first-round pick, Detroit can also exercise a fifth-year option that would keep him under contract in 2027.

Any extension discussions, therefore, are really about securing Gibbs beyond that window.

According to Graziano, the financial debate will likely center around the $20 million-per-year mark. Saquon Barkley’s recent extension with the Eagles set a new benchmark for top-tier running backs at just over $20 million annually. Gibbs’ camp would understandably aim to surpass that figure, while the Lions may try to keep the average salary below it. Whether a deal gets done soon could depend on how firm each side is during negotiations.

Detroit’s cap situation adds another layer of complexity, as the team is also preparing for possible extensions for Brian Branch, Sam LaPorta, and Jack Campbell. The timing and structure of those deals could influence one another and make for a very active offseason.

In the end, Graziano projects that Gibbs will land right at that $20 million annual value, signing a four-year extension worth $80 million. He also believes the Lions will manage to lock up all four young stars this offseason, helping maintain momentum and stability within the organization.