Dan Campbell addressed Jahmyr Gibbs’ contract situation Wednesday morning, just moments before the Detroit Lions opened practice without their star running back participating.
Campbell’s comments were made before reporters learned Gibbs would sit out the session while awaiting a new deal. The Lions coach did not offer specifics on negotiations, but he made Detroit’s feelings about Gibbs clear.
“Of course, you guys know how we feel about Gibbs and all of our guys, LaPorta, Branch, all of them,” Campbell told reporters.
Lions and Gibbs Continue Working Toward a Deal
Campbell described the situation as an ongoing negotiation between the organization and Gibbs’ representatives.
“We’ll take this as it comes. This will continue, and it will come as it comes. I think that’s the best way to say it.
“This is both sides working through something, and we’ll take it as it comes. That’s where it is.”
Those comments carried more significance once Gibbs did not participate in practice.
Gibbs reported to training camp, meaning this is not a traditional holdout. His decision to remain off the field appears to be a hold-in designed to protect himself while contract talks continue.
Detroit’s Core Contract Decisions Are Building
Campbell also mentioned Sam LaPorta and Brian Branch, two more young stars eligible for future extensions.
Detroit wants to keep the core of its roster together, but those negotiations will require careful financial planning. Gibbs appears to be at the front of the line after emerging as one of the NFL’s most dangerous offensive weapons.
The Lions have made him the centerpiece of their backfield. Now the two sides are working to determine what that role is worth.
Bottom Line
Dan Campbell spoke cautiously about Jahmyr Gibbs’ contract before Wednesday’s practice, saying both sides were still working through the process.
Gibbs’ absence from practice added another layer to the story.
There is no indication that negotiations have broken down, but the situation has clearly reached the point where Gibbs is unwilling to risk practicing without a new agreement. Detroit wants him long term, and Gibbs wants the contract to reflect his importance.
Now the wait continues.
