The Detroit Lions are approaching an offseason filled with major financial decisions, but Jahmyr Gibbs’ future is among the simplest to sort out.

The 23-year-old running back is putting together the best season of his young career, and he’s virtually assured of earning a third straight Pro Bowl selection, with legitimate chances at All-Pro honors and even Offensive Player of the Year consideration. Because he was drafted in the first round, Detroit controls his rights through 2026 and has a team option that would keep him under contract through 2027.

However, Gibbs becomes eligible for a long-term extension next summer — and there’s no rational reason for Detroit not to lock him up. According to ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler (Dec. 10), the Lions are expected to go big, potentially making Gibbs the highest-paid running back in NFL history.

Fowler wrote that Gibbs “is positioned” to become the next standard-setter at his position, describing him as one of the most dangerous open-field players in the sport and pointing out that Detroit has expanded his role in the passing game with 31 targets in the past month. He added that the Lions are fully expected to prioritize a deal.

Gibbs Projected to Reach Saquon Barkley-Level Salary — With More Years Attached

Currently, Saquon Barkley of the Philadelphia Eagles sits atop the running back market. His 2025 contract averages $20.6 million per year over two seasons and includes $36 million guaranteed — both the highest figures ever for the position.

The analytics website Spotrac projects Gibbs’ next deal at $20.6 million annually, but over a three-year contract, meaning more total value.

Gibbs’ on-field production supports that valuation. He’s logged 187 carries for 1,062 yards (5.7 YPC) and 13 touchdowns, while also catching 58 passes for 474 yards and three more scores. A season ago, he led the league with 20 total touchdowns, and since entering the NFL in 2023, he has missed only two of 47 regular-season games

Detroit Also Faces Extension Decisions for 3 Other Standout Players

Gibbs isn’t the only young cornerstone eligible for a new contract next offseason.

Three other key Lions contributors will be in position for extensions, though two are currently sidelined with long-term injuries. Fowler reported that Detroit may take the same approach with Brian Branch (Achilles) and Sam LaPorta (back surgery) that it used for Aidan Hutchinson — ensuring they return to form before negotiating major deals.

The remaining candidate, linebacker Jack Campbell, could end up being the first of the group to receive a new contract. Because Detroit needs more medical clarity on Branch and LaPorta, Campbell may have a clearer path to an early agreement that keeps him in Detroit for the long run.