If the Detroit Lions plan to put even more on Jahmyr Gibbs’ plate in 2026, don’t expect the Pro Bowl running back to blink.
Speaking with reporters following Thursday’s OTA practice in Allen Park, Gibbs was asked about the possibility of taking on an even larger workload this season. His answer made one thing abundantly clear.
He doesn’t see it as anything new.
After emerging as one of the NFL’s most explosive offensive weapons in 2025, Gibbs sounds more than ready for whatever responsibilities come his way this fall.
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Jahmyr Gibbs Isn’t Worried About More Carries
For years, Lions fans have debated whether Gibbs could handle the responsibilities of being a true feature back.
The 2025 season certainly helped answer some of those questions. Gibbs totaled 1,839 yards from scrimmage and scored 18 touchdowns while earning Pro Bowl honors.
Now, with David Montgomery no longer on the roster, many expect Gibbs to become the focal point of Detroit’s rushing attack.
The Lions star doesn’t appear concerned.
“It’s nothing I’m not used to.”
Gibbs explained that carrying the offensive workload has been a familiar role throughout his football career.
“Growing up, I’ve always been the guy getting the most carries and handling that workload.”
Because of that experience, he isn’t treating 2026 any differently.
“I’m not looking at it any differently than any other year.”
No Special Preparation Needed
One of the follow-up questions centered on whether Gibbs would need to change his offseason routine if he is expected to touch the football more often.
His response was simple.
“No.”
Instead of overthinking things, Gibbs plans to stick with the routine that helped turn him into one of the league’s most dangerous playmakers.
“I just need to stay consistent with what I do.”
That confidence should be encouraging for Lions fans.
The last thing Detroit needs is a player trying to reinvent himself after a breakout season. Gibbs appears focused on maintaining the habits that have already made him successful.
Gibbs Proud of How Lions Responded to Adversity
Interestingly, when asked where he improved the most last season, Gibbs didn’t point to a statistic or individual accomplishment.
Instead, he talked about the team’s response to adversity.
Despite finishing 9-8 and missing the playoffs, Gibbs believes the Lions grew stronger as a group.
“I think we grew as a team.”
The running back praised the locker room for staying united during a frustrating season.
“We didn’t have the season we wanted, but nobody broke down or started pointing fingers.”
That mentality remained consistent regardless of the results on Sundays.
“We kept our heads down and kept working, whether we won or lost.”
For Gibbs, that may have been the most important lesson of the season.
“I’m proud of the team for that.”
Why This Matters
The Lions are counting on Gibbs to be one of the driving forces behind a return to playoff contention in 2026.
If his comments are any indication, he is embracing that challenge rather than running from it.
Whether Detroit gives him 15 touches per game or 25, Gibbs sounds like a player who believes he has been preparing for this moment his entire life.
And that’s probably exactly what Lions fans wanted to hear.