Detroit Lions head coach Dan Campbell made it clear that the recent contract extension for Atlanta Falcons running back Bijan Robinson will not disrupt negotiations involving his own star back, Jahmyr Gibbs.
Robinson secured a three-year deal worth up to $75 million on Tuesday, ending his own holdout and immediately sparking questions about what the market move might mean for Gibbs, who remains sidelined during Lions training camp amid his own contract situation.
Gibbs, entering the fourth year of his rookie deal, has been present at the team’s facility in Allen Park but has not participated in drills. The 24-year-old is seeking a new agreement after establishing himself as one of the league’s most productive young runners.
Selected in the first round of the 2023 NFL Draft, Gibbs has earned three consecutive Pro Bowl nods, topped 1,200 rushing yards in each of the past two seasons, and set an NFL record with 49 total touchdowns through his first three years.
Campbell addressed the Robinson news when asked about its potential impact on Gibbs.
“I think it certainly is not going to hurt,” Campbell said. “It’s not going to hurt, but we’ll see. 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, it’ll get done when it gets done.”
The coach’s comments reflected both patience and a sense of urgency. With David Montgomery traded to the Houston Texans during the offseason, the Lions’ ground attack now leans even more heavily on Gibbs once he returns.
Campbell has repeatedly emphasized the value of having the versatile back fully involved, noting that his presence elevates the entire offense.
Earlier in the week, Gibbs himself downplayed any strict demand for a completed deal before rejoining practice, saying the situation was “not about that.” Still, the longer the hold-in continues, the more the Lions miss his speed, vision, and receiving skills in camp preparations.
For now, the organization appears content that Gibbs remains around the building and connected to his teammates.
Campbell has described the running back as a valued part of the locker room culture, someone the players and coaches genuinely enjoy having nearby even while the business side of the game plays out.
As negotiations continue, the Lions will wait for the right moment to formalize a long-term commitment that reflects Gibbs’ production and importance to their championship aspirations.
