Jahmyr Gibbs’ Future Contract: How Much Will the Lions Pay to Keep Their Star Running Back?
Philadelphia Eagles Set a New Standard
Earlier this week, the Philadelphia Eagles made Saquon Barkley the highest-paid running back in NFL history, surpassing the $20 million-per-year benchmark. This groundbreaking deal immediately sparked discussions among Detroit Lions fans about Jahmyr Gibbs’ upcoming contract extension. With Gibbs eligible for an extension after the 2025 season, expectations are high that he will command a massive deal.
How Gibbs’ Production Compares to Barkley’s
Cap expert Joshua Queipo analyzed Gibbs’ potential contract and highlighted that if he maintains his current level of play, his numbers over the next two seasons could surpass Barkley’s in key categories. Gibbs is projected to have better stats in rushing touchdowns, receptions, receiving yards, total yards, explosive runs, and forced missed tackles. While his rushing yardage may be slightly behind, his versatility as a receiving threat makes him one of the most dynamic offensive weapons in the league.
Projecting Gibbs’ Contract Extension
Given his unique skill set, Gibbs’ contract comparison isn’t necessarily Barkley’s recent deal, but rather Christian McCaffrey’s 2020 extension. McCaffrey signed for $16 million per year under a $198.2 million salary cap. With the NFL salary cap expected to rise to $300 million in the near future, an adjusted McCaffrey-level deal would put Gibbs in the $24 million per year range. However, a more conservative market increase suggests a deal closer to $22.25 million per year.
Based on these projections, Gibbs is expected to sign a four-year extension worth $89 million, with approximately $40-45 million guaranteed. This deal would likely make him the highest-paid running back in the league.
Can the Lions Afford to Keep Everyone?
While locking up Gibbs long-term is a priority, Detroit has other young stars approaching contract extensions, including Aidan Hutchinson, Jameson Williams, and Kerby Joseph. The financial reality of retaining all these players is becoming increasingly difficult.
The Lions’ success in the 2023 NFL Draft—selecting Gibbs, Brian Branch, Jack Campbell, and Sam LaPorta—means they will eventually face tough decisions. With multiple players due for big contracts after the 2025 season, at least one may become the odd man out.
The Challenge of Managing the Salary Cap
While some argue that the NFL salary cap is a myth, even the best teams eventually feel its constraints. Detroit has built a strong core of young talent, but keeping all of them under long-term contracts will require difficult choices. The Lions’ front office may find creative ways to retain their stars, but it won’t be easy. Gibbs’ potential extension is just the beginning of a complex financial balancing act for Detroit’s future.
