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Jahmyr Gibbs remains at the center of the NFL’s running back contract conversation after Atlanta Falcons star Bijan Robinson secured a historic extension. Gibbs and Robinson, both selected in the first round of the 2023 NFL draft, have been closely connected throughout their contract negotiations and training camp hold-ins.
Robinson spoke about Gibbs on Wednesday after agreeing to a three-year contract with the Falcons worth up to $75 million. The deal includes $51 million guaranteed and is valued at $22.25 million per year, making Robinson the highest-paid running back in NFL history on an annual basis.
Jahmyr Gibbs Contract Pressure Builds After Record Deal
Gibbs has continued to attend Detroit Lions practices without fully participating as he waits for a new extension. The arrangement is commonly known around the NFL as a “hold-in,” allowing a player to remain present with the team while avoiding on-field work during unresolved contract negotiations.
Robinson said the two young running backs communicated while they were both navigating the unusual situation. According to ESPN, they encouraged one another to remain patient and trust that the negotiations would eventually work out.
“We just told each other, ‘Just hang in there, everything’s going to get done, everything’s going to be all right,’” Robinson said.
The Falcons running back also made clear that he wants Gibbs to receive the value he believes he has earned. Robinson said Gibbs “deserves it all,” a significant show of support from a player whose new contract could directly influence the Detroit star’s negotiations.
Why Bijan Robinson and Gibbs Are Linked
The connection between Robinson and Gibbs goes beyond their contract situations. They entered the NFL in the same draft class and were selected within the top 12 picks. Atlanta chose Robinson at No. 8, while Detroit selected Gibbs at No. 12.
Since then, both players have become important offensive weapons for their teams. Robinson has established himself as a dynamic runner and receiver, while Gibbs has developed into one of the league’s most explosive dual-threat backs.
Their performances have fueled an ongoing debate over which player is the better running back. Robinson said the competition benefits both athletes because it motivates them to produce whenever they take the field.
“The Bijan-Gibbs debate is actually cool to see,” Robinson said. “It actually helps us both out because every single Sunday or whatever day we play, we’re always trying to compete against each other.”
Detroit Lions Face Critical Decision on Gibbs
Robinson’s extension creates a powerful negotiating benchmark for Gibbs and his representatives. Detroit must now consider whether Gibbs’ production, versatility and importance to the offense justify a contract near or above the Falcons’ record-setting agreement.
The Lions have built a high-powered offense around several core players, and Gibbs has become a major part of that identity. His speed, receiving ability and open-field creativity make him more than a traditional running back. He can line up in the backfield, split out as a receiver and change the direction of a game with one explosive play.
That versatility could strengthen his position in negotiations. A contract for Gibbs may be measured not only against deals signed by other running backs, but also against the value of elite offensive playmakers across the league.
- Robinson’s deal is worth up to $75 million over three years.
- The contract includes $51 million guaranteed.
- Robinson will earn $22.25 million annually.
- Gibbs and Robinson were both first-round picks in 2023.
- Gibbs remains a training-camp hold-in with the Lions.
Explosive Rivalry Could Reshape the Running Back Market
Running back contracts have often been viewed cautiously because of the position’s physical demands and relatively short career windows. However, Robinson’s agreement signals that elite, versatile backs can still command major investments when they are central to an offense.
For Gibbs, the timing is especially important. He is entering a stage of his career when Detroit must decide how aggressively to protect one of its most dangerous weapons. A long-term agreement would provide Gibbs with financial security while giving the Lions greater certainty over their offensive foundation.
Robinson acknowledged that holding in was difficult because he wanted to practice with his teammates. He even asked his agent, Nicole Lynn of Klutch Sports, whether he could participate in limited activities. That experience may give him an understanding of what Gibbs is currently facing.
For now, the two players remain supportive competitors. Robinson’s new deal has raised the financial ceiling, but Gibbs’ eventual agreement could determine whether the NFL’s running back market has truly entered a new phase.
Frequently Asked Questions About Jahmyr Gibbs
Why is Jahmyr Gibbs holding in at training camp?
Jahmyr Gibbs is attending Detroit Lions practices but has not fully participated while he awaits a new contract extension. This approach is known as a hold-in.
How much is Bijan Robinson’s new contract worth?
Bijan Robinson agreed to a three-year contract with the Atlanta Falcons worth up to $75 million, including $51 million guaranteed.
Could Gibbs surpass Robinson’s contract?
It is possible. Robinson’s agreement gives Gibbs and his representatives a major benchmark, and Gibbs’ receiving ability could support a similar or larger deal.
When were Gibbs and Robinson drafted?
Both players were selected in the 2023 NFL draft. Robinson went No. 8 to Atlanta, while Gibbs was selected No. 12 by Detroit.
