The Lions had two first-round selections entering the draft, 6 and 18. Brad Holmes surprised the world by picking Jahmyr Gibbs at pick 12 after moving back to pick 12 with the Arizona Cardinals. Picking a running back at pick 12 seems absurd since many people think that the value of running backs in the NFL is at an all-time low. It’s being questioned whether the value of running backs is beginning to increase after Bijan Robinson was selected at number eight. I believe Gibbs has a lot of potential as a player, but the key question is whether he can live up to being selected with the 12th overall pick.
Jahmyr Gibbs was the second running back selected in the first round. Many believe the Detroit Lions will attempt to use him the same way they planned to use D’Andre Swift. Gibbs transferred to Alabama for his junior year after spending his first two seasons playing for Georgia Tech. He gained just under 1000 running yards and 450 receiving yards while playing for Bama. Although many see Detroit’s decision to select him with the 12th overall pick as a reach, this says two things. Swift was not at all valued by the Lions, to start. Detroit was looking for a running back who brought the same abilities as Swift, but who unlike Swift, they could count on to be healthy each week. Additionally, it expresses Brad Holmes’ opinions on the running back position. Choosing a running back at pick number twelve is incredibly high, but if Detroit wants a back who can consistently contribute to the pass and run games, he is the ideal choice.
David Montgomery and Jahmyr Gibbs will create a fantastic 1 2 combination, but Gibbs was also acquired to have a significant effect in the passing game. Gibbs was regarded as the finest passing catcher in the draft, so adding a play action specialist is a tremendous upgrade, especially for Jared Goff. Gibbs can also be utilized as a receiver, which was a concern because Jameson Williams’ suspension for the first six games made it uncertain whether they would select a receiver in the early rounds. He has some experience as a slot receiver in college, so he will be ready to contribute immediately. His dual threat ability makes him a very good player, especially when coupled with someone like David Montgomery. He is not the sort of running back that you give 25–30 touches per game, but he can still make just as much of an impact.
This offense will benefit greatly from Jahmyr Gibbs, especially while Jameson Williams is sidelined. He has the potential to be among the league’s top running backs because of his dual threat skills. It will be fascinating to watch what Ben Johnson can accomplish with a back who can compete while remaining healthy. Even if we think he was a reach, Brad Holmes views Gibbs as his man, and only time will tell if he will be worth the 12th overall choice.
