The Detroit Lions likely had little interest in tuning into this year’s Super Bowl. What began as a season filled with championship expectations ended with Detroit sidelined during the postseason, forced to watch the league’s biggest game from afar.

Now three years removed from their painful NFC Championship loss—where they squandered a 24–7 halftime advantage—the sense is growing that Detroit’s opportunity to contend may be narrowing. That reality has added pressure on the organization to act decisively this offseason.

Teams in this situation sometimes overhaul their approach, but the Lions appear committed to doubling down on offense instead. That mindset helps explain why offensive coordinator John Morton’s tenure lasted only one year. Rather than reinventing themselves, Detroit may look for modest defensive upgrades while leaning heavily on offensive firepower to reemerge as a contender in 2026.

If that’s the plan, securing running back Jahmyr Gibbs with a long-term extension should be near the top of the to-do list now that the Super Bowl is over.

Why Locking Up Jahmyr Gibbs Makes Sense Now

Gibbs stands out as one of the few core offensive players who hasn’t yet been secured for the long haul. Quarterback Jared Goff is under contract through 2028, while wide receivers Amon-Ra St. Brown and Jameson Williams are signed through 2029. Gibbs, meanwhile, is approaching the point where a major payday becomes unavoidable.

Based on his performance, he has earned it. Drafted 13th overall in 2023, Gibbs has quickly established himself among the league’s most productive running backs. Over three seasons, he ranks near the top in rushing yards and touchdowns while also excelling as a receiver out of the backfield, placing among the league leaders at his position in catches, receiving yards, and receiving scores.

That level of production won’t come cheap. According to Spotrac projections, Gibbs could be in line for a deal averaging just over $20 million per year, potentially spanning three seasons and surpassing $60 million total. Comparable contracts include James Cook’s four-year agreement with Buffalo and Jonathan Taylor’s three-year deal with Indianapolis, both of which Gibbs could reasonably exceed given his age and versatility.

Turning 24 in March, Gibbs may ultimately command more than those figures, and working out the specifics could take time. Still, there’s a strong argument for getting the deal done sooner rather than later.

Detroit has other roster priorities, particularly along both lines of scrimmage. While the draft offers one path to address those needs, pursuing established veterans in free agency would put added strain on the salary cap. Adjusting existing contracts—such as those belonging to Goff or Penei Sewell—could help, but finalizing Gibbs’ extension early would provide clarity and allow general manager Brad Holmes to build around a known financial framework.

The organization has shown it can move quickly in similar situations. St. Brown and Sewell agreed to extensions in April 2024, Goff followed shortly after, and linebacker Derrick Barnes landed a multi-year deal in 2025. Those examples suggest that when negotiations align, Detroit doesn’t drag its feet.

By securing Gibbs now, the Lions could avoid a prolonged offseason distraction and ensure one of their most dynamic playmakers remains central to their plans. With the offseason officially underway, a deal could come together faster than many expect.