Open thread: Is Lions RB Jahmyr Gibbs already an elite back in the NFL?

It’s only been one year, but has Lions’ running back Jahmyr Gibbs already cemented himself among the best in the NFL?

A certain discussion on Twitter this week got me thinking. It started with a deluded writer covering the Green Bay Packers began by comparing the Packers’ roster with the Detroit Lions. The writer would go as far to say that he believes that the Packers are already better than the Lions, but beyond that, he had questions about whether or not Lions’ running back Jahmyr Gibbs was already a top-flight playmaker in the NFL.

When Gibbs was drafted by Lions general manager Brad Holmes at 12th overall in the 2023 NFL Draft, there were a lot of people who were staunchly against the pick, and to an extent—understandably so. Taking a running back that high is usually bad business, but sometimes, in rare cases, the juice can certainly be worth the squeeze. It took a little bit for him to get going, but once he found his footing, Gibbs really took off.

He is absolutely lethal in open space where his game-breaking speed and elusiveness is on full display. However, what surprised a lot of people about Gibbs’ game (including myself) was his physicality between the tackles as well.

Sharing a backfield with running-mate David Montgomery definitely helps, but still, Gibbs’ stats during his rookie campaign speak for themselves: 234 touches, 1,261 yards, and 11 total touchdowns.

Today’s Question of the Day is:

Is Lions’ RB Jahmyr Gibbs already an elite NFL running back?

My Answer: You’re damn right he is. Running back is one of those positions where young players can come into the league and make a difference right away, and Gibbs’ game is almost tailor-made for today’s NFL.

As it stands now, there are only a few backs I would take before Gibbs, and even those could be up for debate when you start thinking about it.

How about you? Do you think Gibbs has already cemented himself as one of the best backs in football? Let us know in the comments by scrolling down to the bottom of the page.