Jahmyr Gibbs is still not ready to discuss his contract negotiations publicly.
He may have delivered his most encouraging update yet without saying a word.
After Thursday’s Detroit Lions training camp practice, Dave Birkett of the Detroit Free Press asked Gibbs whether a new deal was close. Gibbs continued walking toward the team facility but responded by giving Birkett a thumbs-up.
That gesture is not confirmation that an extension has been completed. It does add another positive sign to a day filled with growing optimism surrounding Gibbs’ future in Detroit.
Gibbs Returns to the Practice Field
Gibbs participated in Detroit’s walkthrough and stretching periods Thursday after sitting out the first six practices of training camp. He later moved to a side field and continued working separately with the Lions’ training staff.
The limited participation marked his first on-field work of camp. Gibbs had remained inside the building throughout his hold-in, attending meetings and completing workouts while negotiations continued.
No contract extension had been announced as of Thursday morning.
The thumbs-up could indicate confidence that talks are headed in the right direction. It could also have been Gibbs’ playful way of avoiding another contract question.
Until the Lions announce a deal, anything beyond that would be speculation.
Optimism Continues to Build
Jonathan Jones of The Athletic reported earlier Thursday that sources were optimistic Detroit and Gibbs could complete an agreement this week.
General manager Brad Holmes also confirmed that the Lions remain in dialogue with Gibbs’ representatives, though he stopped short of predicting when a deal might be completed.
The running back market has become much clearer after new contracts for Bijan Robinson and Jonathan Taylor established annual values above $22 million.
Gibbs is positioned to challenge or surpass those numbers. The 24-year-old has accumulated 5,029 yards from scrimmage and 49 touchdowns through his first three NFL seasons. He remains under contract through 2027 after Detroit exercised his fifth-year option.
Bottom Line
Jahmyr Gibbs did not stop to answer questions after Thursday’s practice, but his thumbs-up response when asked whether a deal was close will only increase anticipation around Allen Park.
It was not an announcement. It was not a signature.
Combined with his return to limited practice work and reports of growing optimism, it was another indication that Detroit and Gibbs may be approaching the finish line.
Lions fans have spent all week waiting for the real signal.
The next one could come from the team’s official account.
