Jahmyr Gibbs worth paying more than Bijan? Answering 5 key questions about his record deal

Jahmyr Gibbs has become the NFL’s highest-paid running back after extending his contract with the Detroit Lions, a move tied directly to his fast start and expected workload growth. At age 24, Gibbs has earned three consecutive Pro Bowl selections and was described as an early betting favorite for the 2026 Offensive Player of the Year. In 2025, he totaled 1,839 scrimmage yards (fifth in the league) with 18 touchdowns (second), including 3,580 rushing yards—ranked 22nd for a player’s first three seasons since yardage stats began in 1932. The Lions, using new offensive coordinator Drew Petzing, now plan to lean on Gibbs as the offense’s focal point after trading David Montgomery to the Houston Texans. The extension ended a hold-in where Gibbs sat out six straight practices at training camp. ESPN analysts said the deal was also influenced by the precedent set by the Falcons’ three-year $51 million-guaranteed extension for Bijan Robinson.