What 2025 and Beyond Could Look Like for This Lions Running Back
Running back Jahmyr Gibbs has become the backbone of the Detroit Lions over the past two seasons. Gibbs would be drafted in 2023 with the 12th pick, where he would immediately make an impact for the offense. He would rush for 945 yards and score 10 touchdowns in his rookie season, earning a Pro Bowl honor. He would also be named to the NFL All-Rookie Team for his performance. In the 2024 season, he would pick up where he left off and add some more, rushing for 1,412 yards and 16 touchdowns. This would earn him another Pro Bowl selection, making him a two-time Pro Bowler in just two seasons in the NFL. With Gibbs approaching his third season, even more success could be in store for the Lions’ superstar.
The 23-year-old will be working alongside a new running backs coach this season in Tashard Choice. This would come after many changes in the Lions’ coaching staff, including former offensive coordinator Ben Johnson and defensive coordinator Aaron Glenn getting head coaching jobs. While Gibbs has had plenty of success on his own, unfortunately, the team has been unable to capture its first Super Bowl trophy in franchise history. The changes to the coaching staff not only intend to continue to develop Gibbs and his career, but also the Lions’ hopes of winning it all for the first time. Gibbs will once again not be alone in the backfield.
Running back David Montgomery has been splitting snaps with Gibbs ever since he joined the team in 2023. Montgomery has become just as important a piece of the Lions’ identity, rushing for 1,790 yards and 25 touchdowns in his two seasons with Detroit. Gibbs and Montgomery have embraced the identity of popular video game characters, “Sonic and Knuckles”, establishing a good idea of what they provide to Lion's offense. With both players still young and still developing with each other, the sky is the limit for the running back room in Detroit. With the 2025 season just months away, another big season for Gibbs may be in store that once again tops the year before.
