By Mmesoma 
Detroit Lions running back Jahmyr Gibbs continues to receive glowing recognition as one of the NFL’s elite performers, cementing himself among the top three backs in the league.
🏈 High praise from ESPN rankings
In ESPN’s highly anticipated annual running back rankings, Gibbs earned the No. 3 spot—just behind elite talents like Christian McCaffrey and Saquon Barkley—with NFL scouts raving about his dynamic speed, instincts, and playmaking impact . “He’s a lot like Reggie Bush, just with a little bit more power,” noted one AFC executive, cautioning that Gibbs may “wear down faster” in a workhorse role due to his compact frame—but lauding his game-changing burst .
👊 Lions coach pledges to push him further
Detroit’s new running backs coach, Tashard Choice—who initially coached Gibbs at Georgia Tech—has loudly endorsed his talent. Saying “The sky is the limit,” Choice declared he’ll “push him like no other,” while praising Gibbs as “one of the smartest running backs I’ve ever coached” .
🔝 NFC North’s premier running back
Sports Illustrated named Gibbs the No. 1 running back in the NFC North, ahead of Minnesota’s Josh Jacobs and Detroit teammate David Montgomery. Analysts credited Gibbs’s 1,412-yard, 16-touchdown rushing season—plus four receiving touchdowns—as justification for the top ranking .
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Why Gibbs is receiving such elite recognition
Factor Impact
Statistical output Rushed for 1,412 yards and 16 rushing TDs in 2024; led NFL with 20 total TDs; 5.5 yards per carry
Versatility Threat both rushing and receiving; viewed as a pass-catching back with room to develop
Intelligence & instincts High football IQ complements natural explosiveness
Dynamic backfield pairing Gibbs + Montgomery dubbed NFL’s top RB duo, nicknamed “Sonic and Knuckles”
Youthful upside Just 23, with two Pro Bowl nods already under his belt
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As Gibbs enters his third NFL season, expectations are soaring. His ability to sustain peak performance as the team’s likely featured back will be closely watched, especially after his explosive proficiency in Montgomery’s absence late last season . With a top-tier coach in Choice and the duo dynamic with Montgomery, Detroit’s offense is shaping up to remain one of the most potent in the league.
Gibbs’ next big milestone? A potential contract in 2026 that could reshape the RB market—possibly a four-year extension worth around $84 million with $44 million guaranteed, according to projections .
Stay tuned: all signs point to Gibbs not just maintaining, but building on his elite reputation.