The Detroit Lions have high expectations for running back Jahmyr Gibbs heading into the upcoming NFL season, and general manager Brad Holmes recently explained when he realized the young star had truly arrived.

During an appearance on Good Morning Football, Holmes reflected on the team’s decision to draft Gibbs in the first round of the 2023 NFL Draft and the moments that convinced him the pick would pay off.

Holmes admitted that even before the draft, he could already picture Gibbs wearing a Lions uniform.

“There were so many times when I was driving to work before that draft, and I couldn’t stop imagining Jahmyr Gibbs in a Lions uniform,” Holmes said. “When it finally happened, it was just a burst of emotion—excitement and happiness—because I truly believed he was a special and unique player.”

Early Signs of Success

Holmes noted that Gibbs began showing flashes of his potential during Detroit’s season opener against the Kansas City Chiefs.

Although Gibbs was still adjusting to the pace and patience required at the NFL level, his explosive ability was already noticeable.

“It was the opening game on Thursday night against Kansas City,” Holmes explained. “He was still learning some of the nuances of playing running back in the NFL, like slowing down and showing patience. But he made a few runs in that game where I thought, ‘Okay, it’s coming.’”

The Breakout Moment

Despite the early promise, Holmes said the moment he truly knew the Lions made the right investment came during the following season.

In a dominant 52-14 win over the Tennessee Titans, Gibbs broke off a massive touchdown run that confirmed Holmes’ belief in the former Alabama Crimson Tide football star.

“I think it was the next year when he broke an 80- or 90-yard run against Tennessee,” Holmes said. “When I saw those long runs, that’s when I thought, ‘Okay, it’s here.’”

Overcoming Draft Criticism

When Detroit selected Gibbs in the first round of the 2023 draft, the move drew criticism from analysts who questioned taking a running back that early due to positional value.

However, Gibbs’ explosive playmaking ability has quickly validated the Lions’ decision.

Holmes also praised Gibbs for more than just his talent.

“It’s not just his ability,” Holmes added. “He’s a great kid with outstanding football character.”

As the Lions prepare for the upcoming season, the team is expecting Gibbs to play an even bigger role in the offense after proving he can be one of the league’s most dynamic running backs.