The time is coming for Detroit Lions running back Jahmyr Gibbs to get paid.
Gibbs, who had another sensational game in Week 14 against the Dallas Cowboys, is in the midst of another elite season, with the former first-round pick tallying 1,062 rushing yards, 474 receiving yards and 16 total touchdowns.
He's also on the cusp of making NFL history, as he needs just one more touchdown the rest of the regular season to surpass Lions legend Barry Sanders for the most touchdowns scored before the age of 24.
There is no doubt that Gibbs is arguably the most important player on the Lions' offense and one of the best players in the NFL. Gibbs is going to get paid handsomely as a result.
NFL Network's Ian Rapoport reports that Gibbs is the Lions' "priority No. 1" when it comes to an extension, which he says could well come in 2026, even with Gibbs still having two more years left on his rookie deal when you include the fifth-year option.
"My understanding is (Gibbs) is priority No. 1. Could be highly-paid this offseason," Rapoport reported.
Rapoport rightly adds that the Lions "do an excellent job" of taking care of their homegrown players, something we have seen time and time again.
It would behoove the Lions to get a contract extension done with Gibbs sooner than later. Gibbs is most definitely going to reset the market at running back and the longer the Lions wait, the more expensive he might become.
As things stand now, Gibbs could be looking at a four-year extension that exceeds $21 million annually.
Philadelphia Eagles running back Saquon Barkley holds the high-water mark in annual average at $20.6 million, and Green Bay Packers rusher Josh Jacobs' contract totals a position-high $48 million, per Over the Cap.
Knowing all that, Gibbs could be looking at a four-year, $84 million contract, which would also make him the highest-paid running back in NFL history.
Sounds about right for an elite player who is doing historic things with the Lions.
More NFL News
- CeeDee Lamb injury update from concussion doctor is scary news
- Brian Branch injury update is troubling news for Lions' playoff push
- Cowboys finding out what Steelers already knew about George Pickens
- Player Bills cut to make room for Darius Slay claimed off waivers
- Micah Parsons makes strong statement on Penn State's next head coach