The Detroit Lions made a significant investment in the 2023 NFL Draft by selecting Jahmyr Gibbs with the No. 12 overall pick, and they have high expectations for the rookie. As the team heads into Week 7 with an injury-riddled backfield, Gibbs is set to make his return after missing the past two weeks due to a hamstring injury.
Lions head coach Dan Campbell announced that due to the injuries in the backfield, Gibbs will be relied upon heavily as they prepare to face the Baltimore Ravens on Sunday.
Campbell stated, “Certainly, I think he’s going to need to take the load of (the work). We’re just going to have to see where he’s at. I’d like to say we want to be careful with him, but the reality of it is we need him. We’ll go as far as he can take us here, trying to be as smart as we can, but he’s gotta go. He’s ready, he’s ready.”
Although Gibbs was officially listed as limited in the Lions’ first two practices of the week, Campbell mentioned that he “looked pretty good” on Thursday. With starter David Montgomery expected to miss the upcoming game due to a rib injury and fellow back Craig Reynolds dealing with hamstring and toe injuries, the Lions find themselves with limited options at the position, making Gibbs the focal point of the rushing attack.
Heading into the season, there was a lot of excitement about Gibbs’ potential impact on the offense, given the Lions’ aggressive pursuit of him. Offensive coordinator Ben Johnson hinted that they planned to utilize Gibbs in unconventional ways. However, Gibbs initially played a secondary role to Montgomery before his hamstring injury. Nevertheless, Gibbs has shown flashes of his potential, with notable performances like a 17-carry, 80-yard game against the Falcons in Week 3 and a seven-catch outing against the Seahawks in Week 2.
As Gibbs prepares for a heavier workload, a breakout performance from him would be a positive development for the Lions. The team not only needs increased production from the running back position but also has aspirations for a deep playoff run.
