Lions Running Back Gibbs Skips Opening Training Camp Practice Over Contract Extension Talks

Detroit Lions running back Jahmyr Gibbs did not participate in the team’s first training camp practice Wednesday, marking an early absence tied to ongoing contract extension negotiations. The 24-year-old, who reported to camp but avoided the field for the opening session, is not currently listed on the Lions’ Physically Unable to Perform or Non-Football Injury roster, a strong indication he is holding out pending a new deal.

Lions head coach Dan Campbell addressed the situation following Wednesday’s practice, acknowledging the contract talks while remaining measured about the timeline. “This will kind of continue. It’ll come as it comes,” Campbell said via The Athletic. “This is both sides working through something, and we’ll take it as it comes, but that’s where it is.”

Gibbs has emerged as one of Detroit’s premier offensive weapons since the team selected him 12th overall in the 2023 NFL Draft. Last season, he appeared in all 17 games for the first time in his career, accumulating 1,223 rushing yards, 13 touchdowns, 77 receptions, and five receiving touchdowns while earning his third consecutive Pro Bowl selection.

His 2024 campaign saw a significant leap in production, as Gibbs rushed for 1,412 yards with 16 touchdowns and caught 52 passes for 517 yards and four additional scores. Atlanta Falcons running back Bijan Robinson similarly skipped his team’s first training camp practice Wednesday due to contract-related matters, according to The Athletic.