NFL analyst offers a curious take on Jahmyr Gibbs' long-term future with Lions

The Detroit Lions have built one of the NFL's best young rosters in the last few seasons, but along with that comes certain unescapable realties.

Financially, the franchise has to choose which players to reward. So far, they've done a decent job with that balancing act. Many are wondering whether that will continue with one of their biggest stars.

Running back Jahmyr Gibbs has impressed the last two years, but as he enters year three, many can't help but wonder if he is part of the long-term picture in Detroit. Early this offseason, reports suggest that Gibbs will be asked to expand his repertoire to catch more passes.

Mike Florio of Pro Football Talk looked specifically at Gibbs, wondering if his work is going to price him out of Detroit in the years ahead, especially if he proves himself adept at pass catching.

"I really do wonder though, because (Jahmyr) Gibbs is entering year three, and after this year, he's going to be eligible for a new contract. How much more will he get the ball? Will it be catches? Will it be runs? Does he end up with heavy receiving yardage? Does he make the argument next year 'I should get paid like a No.1 running back and a No. 2 receiver?'"

Florio also wonders if Gibbs craves more attention than the Lions give him, and desires a chance to cash in and go off on his own as a lead back.

"Gibbs doesn't get used as much as he should, and if he was getting used more than he is, he'd be able to command a lot more. How do you find the right sweet spot? And does Gibbs at some point want to play for a team where he is Saquon Barkley, where he is Derrick Henry? It's a tough sale to a guy who is on a good team, but you're taking a reduced load. Does he want to go somewhere where he gets to be the guy and the workhorse even if he's not on a team that is stacked?"

The Lions, it has been said, may not be able to keep everyone. They will likely do a deal with Aidan Hutchinson next, but Gibbs is the top offensive star set to come up for a contract. If the Lions want him, they're likely to figure out a way to make it happen.

Lions have paid their young stars and Jahmyr Gibbs could be next

No matter what impact Gibbs has on the Detroit offense this fall, the Lions are likely to prioritize him as a building block. Between him and David Montgomery, the ground game has been solid the last few seasons and a top reason for team success.

Contrary to Florio's point, Gibbs hasn't struggled with usage in Detroit. In 2024, he posted 1,412 yards and 16 touchdowns en-route to the Pro Bowl. When Montgomery has gone down with injury, Gibbs has seamlessly stepped in. He's been effective in a dual role and hasn't shown signs of disappointment with this whatsoever.

By using Gibbs as a pass catcher, John Morton is likely trying to open up the offense rather than take anything off of their young star's plate. He can be dangerous in the open field, and getting the ball in his hands as much as possible should be a goal, considering his status as a potential MVP dark horse.

Gibbs hasn't been anything other than a fantastic team player with the Lions. He will get rewarded with an appropriate contract when the time comes, and Detroit will have the first opportunity to get a deal done.

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