The Detroit Lions’ offense was electric last season, and running back Jahmyr Gibbs was a big reason why. But don’t expect the team—or his new position coach—to let him coast in 2025.
New running backs coach Tashard Choice isn’t easing into his role, especially when it comes to Gibbs. The two have a long history, dating back to their days together at Georgia Tech. Now reunited in Detroit, Choice is making it clear that he’s raising the bar.
“He gets it right away,” Choice said, referring to Gibbs’ football IQ. “You don’t have to tell him something more than once. That’s why I’m going to be harder on him.”
Gibbs is coming off a massive season where he racked up over 1,400 rushing yards and 517 receiving yards—numbers that put him among the elite in the NFL. But as far as Choice is concerned, that was just the beginning.
The tough-love approach isn’t just reserved for Gibbs either. Fellow back David Montgomery is also getting the same no-nonsense treatment. Choice made it clear that once these guys are on the field, it’s all business.
“You’re the player, not the person,” he said. “I’m coaching you to get better.”
With Gibbs only 23 years old and Montgomery continuing to bring that physical edge, Detroit’s backfield was already dangerous. Add Choice’s demanding style to the mix, and things could get even scarier for opposing defenses.
New offensive coordinator John Morton will bring some fresh wrinkles to the offense in 2025, but make no mistake—the Lions will still lean heavily on their run game. And with Choice pushing his backs to another level, fans might see an even more explosive version of Gibbs this season.
The message is clear: success is good, but dominance is the goal.
Lions Backfield Gets Fierce as Choice Demands More from Gibbs and Montgomery
