Lions running back Jahmyr Gibbs skips fifth practice amid contract talks
Jahmyr Gibbs missed his fifth consecutive training-camp practice, saying his absence was not tied to a new contract, while Detroit coach Dan Campbell emphasized the player remains part of the team.
Detroit Lions running back Jahmyr Gibbs was absent for a fifth straight practice on Monday, Aug. 3, and offered no clear timeline for his return. When asked about his status, Gibbs replied, "Only time will tell," and dismissed speculation that a new contract was the reason, saying, "Nah, it’s not about that." He added, "I don't know," when pressed for further details.
The 24-year-old, a three-time Pro Bowler with 3,580 rushing yards and 49 touchdowns over three seasons, has been classified as a "hold-in" during camp. He is slated to earn $3.183 million in base salary and bonuses this season and has two years remaining on his rookie deal. Coach Dan Campbell noted that Gibbs reported a minor back injury during the team's conditioning test but has continued to participate in weight-room workouts and film sessions.
Campbell said Gibbs managed to get some work inside the practice facility on Sunday and stressed that the player remains integrated with the squad. "To be able to come out and be around the guys, I think that’s always going to be important," Campbell said. "He’s still part of us and the guys, our players love him, we love him and he’s a part of what we do."
The Lions have expressed a desire to secure long-term extensions for Gibbs and other 2023 draft picks, following a recent pattern of retaining homegrown talent such as Penei Sewell and Aidan Hutchinson.