Allen Park — A key domino has fallen, paving the path for the Detroit Lions to get an extension with running back Jahmyr Gibbs’ across the finish line.
On Tuesday morning, the Atlanta Falcons and first-team All Pro running back Bijan Robinson came to terms on a record-breaking contract extension for the position. The reported figures are three years $66.75 million with incentives that could push the earning potential to $75 million. The deal includes $51 million in guarantees.
Already under team control for this season and next after the Falcons exercised the fifth-year option on his rookie contract, the new money being reported for Robinson is for 2027-2030.
Robinson’s situation directly parallels Gibbs’ in Detroit. Both first-round picks in 2023, they have emerged as the two most valuable backs in the league when factoring in their consistent production and age.
Gibbs’ deal should eventually settle in the same range. Robinson has racked up more yards from scrimmage through three seasons, while Gibbs has averaged more yards per carry and scored more touchdowns.
“I mean, I think it's certainly not going to hurt…but we'll see,” Lions coach Dan Campbell said Tuesday after news of Robinson’s deal broke. “Look, I'm anxious to get Gibbs back out there. Every day that goes by, that's another day that you feel like you miss with him and getting him out there with the guys and him doing his part. But there again, man, it'll get done when he gets done.”
I fully expect Gibbs to be on the practice field next week. My opinion was always that he was waiting for Robinson to get paid before he signed his deal.
I am definitely not a fan of what Gibbs has done here. This organization has taken care of its stars, and done so early. I understand the tactic, but he will soon be a week behind his teammates. To me, it's a big finger thrown at the organization.