Jahmyr Gibbs Misses 5th Practice Amid Lions Contract Negotiations

Detroit Lions running back Jahmyr Gibbs, who has 49 career touchdowns, missed his fifth consecutive practice Monday during an apparent hold-in.

ALLEN PARK, Mich. -- Detroit Lions running back Jahmyr Gibbs missed his fifth consecutive practice on Monday at the Meijer Performance Center. The three-time Pro Bowler, who has recorded 49 touchdowns through his first three seasons—the most by any player in NFL history—is currently engaged in an apparent hold-in while seeking a contract extension. Gibbs is under contract through the 2027 season, but both parties are working to secure a long-term agreement to keep the 2023 first-round draft pick in Detroit for a longer duration.

During Monday's session, Gibbs was seen on the sidelines wearing a gray Lions cutoff hoodie. While he did not participate in drills, he spent time conversing with teammates Jared Goff, Jameson Williams, and Amon-Ra St. Brown. When approached by reporters while heading toward the locker room with team security, Gibbs stated that "only time will tell" regarding his return to the field. He further noted "it’s not about that" when questioned if a new deal was a prerequisite for his return to practice, though he declined to provide additional details.

Injury Status and Training Camp Presence

Lions head coach Dan Campbell confirmed that Gibbs completed a conditioning test last week. During that assessment, Campbell noted the running back experienced "a little bit of a back" issue, though the coach clarified the ailment was not severe. Despite the absence from active drills, Gibbs has remained present at the facility, getting work done inside before joining his teammates outdoors. Campbell expressed that having the dual-threat playmaker around the squad is important, stating the players and coaching staff continue to support him during the business negotiations.

Gibbs is recognized for his blazing speed and his ability to contribute as both a runner and a receiver. His situation in Detroit mirrors a similar hold-in occurring at the Atlanta Falcons' training camp, where fellow 2023 first-round selection Bijan Robinson is also absent from practice while seeking a new contract. Both Robinson and Gibbs are currently slated to remain under their rookie deals through the 2027 campaign.

Teammate Support and Market Value

Teammates have been vocal regarding Gibbs' value to the franchise. Jameson Williams argued that Gibbs should be the highest-paid running back in the NFL, suggesting that observers should look at the film rather than just the statistics. Williams described Gibbs as the best in the league, claiming no other player is close to his level of performance.

Coach Campbell indicated that the team is hoping to wrap up the contract situation sooner rather than later. He emphasized that Gibbs remains a vital part of the organization's plans and that his presence on the sidelines is a positive sign for team morale. The Lions are currently in the midst of training camp as they prepare for the upcoming season, with the front office and Gibbs' representatives continuing to negotiate the terms of a potential long-term residency in Detroit. Eric Woodyard of ESPN reported these developments at 11:18 AM ET on August 3, 2026.