Per Adam Schefter of ESPN, head coach Dan Campbell confirmed the MCL sprain injury, but also expects Pacheco to be able to play in Week 1 of the 2026 NFL season. Still, Pacheco, who has a history of leg injuries, should be taking good care if he wants to be available.

Pacheco comes to replace David Montgomery. Both are more rustic, strong, go-for-contact backs. Meanwhile, Gibbs is more an agile, explosive, high-octane runner with homerun ability.

Pacheco’s injury history

A seventh-rounder who overcame the odds and won a Super Bowl being an intrinsical part of the Chiefs roster saw how his career came, once again, to a halt due to very gruesome injuries. These are the injuries he’s suffered, mainly on the legs:

• Fractured Fibula (2024): Missed 10 games after breaking a bone in his lower leg early in the 2024 season, though he returned in time for the team’s playoff stretch.
• MCL Sprain (2025): Missed four games during his final year with the Kansas City Chiefs due to a right knee sprain.
• MCL Sprain (2026): Suffered a minor knee injury in August 2026 training camp with the Lions, missing practices but tracking to play in the opener.

Pacheco needs a bounce back year

In his first two seasons, Pacheco ran for 830 and 935 yards respectively. However, then injuries came to plague him. In 2024, Pacheco only played eight games and ran for 310 yards. Then, last season he ran for 462. Hence, his decline has been steep.

At 27-years-old, there is still chance for Pacheco to recover and be a valuable piece. However, being on the Lions with Gibbs on the depth chart, his shot at being RB1 rely on his health and Gibbs‘. If Gibbs isn’t injured, he won’t be RB1 anytime soon.

Per Campbell, who spoke on the Lions’ press conference, Jahmyr Gibbs has “only scratched the surface” on what he can do, and they’re prepared to “push him” this season.

That statement, paired to the fact that the Lions let David Montgomery go, and Gibbs is up there as one of the highest-paid running backs in the NFL, makes the Lions intentions clear as day. Gibbs will be the workhorse of this offense.

Jahmyr Gibbs was stellar in 2025

Gibbs was an incredible player in the 2025 NFL season. In 2025, Gibbs had 1839 scrimmage yards and 18 total touchdowns. He was a Pro Bowler and one of the most unstoppable forces in the league.

And that was sharing snaps with Montgomery. Yes, Gibbs was the most prominent back on the roster, but Montgomery was still stealing snaps out of him. Now, he is all alone in the Lions’ backfield.

Gibbs is a very complete running back

Not only does Gibbs have a very complete skill set, but he is excels at every single area. Gibbs has agility, blazing long speed and incredible release. He is a weapon in the passing game as well, and has huge jukes and spins to go around the NFL defenders.

Per Adam Schefter of ESPN, Gibbs signed a three-year, $67.5 million deal that could go up to $75.75 million with $51.5 million guaranteed. This effectively makes him the highest-paid running back by new-money average per year:

1. Jahmyr Gibbs – Detroit Lions – $22.5M
2. Bijan Robinson – Atlanta Falcons – $22.25M
3. Jonathan Taylor – Indianapolis Colts – $22M
4. Saquon Barkley – Philadelphia Eagles – $20.6M
5. Christian McCaffrey – San Francisco 49ers – $19M
6. Devon Achane – Miami Dolphins – $16M
7. Derrick Henry – Baltimore Ravens – $15M
8. Breece Hall – New York Jets – $14.5M

Gibbs’ deal fell short in one aspect

Despite being paid more than anyone on a per-year-average, Jeremiyah Love still leads all RBs in guaranteed money at $53 million. That just speaks as to how massive Love’s contract is after getting drafted third overall.

However, Love is behind on a new-year average. Love will earn around $13.25 million per year, which ranks 10th in the NFL. However, all his money is guaranteed, and that’s what sets his contract apart.

The RB market got reset heavily this NFL offseason

Per Schefter, there was only one $20 million-per-year running back entering the offseason (Saquon Barkley). Now, with the deals of Gibbs, Taylor, and Robinson, the list went up to four in a matter of less than a week.

Players like James Cook (Bills) and Chase Brown (Bengals) could be in for huge deals as well. Cook is coming off a 1912 scrimmage-yard-season where he led the NFL in rushing yards (1,621) and also had 14 touchdowns. Chase Brown has surpassed the 1350 scrimmage-yard mark in both 2024 and 2025 scoring 11 touchdowns in each season.

Gibbs and the Lions are scheduled to enter contract talks soon, as Gibbs will play in his fourth NFL season this year. Hence, the Lions could do the same as the Falcons with Bijan Robinson, and extend his deal rather than let it expire.

However, Gibbs knows his payday will be huge, and that might go specifically into the guaranteed money of the contract. Right now, Jeremiyah Love has $53 million guaranteed in his deal thanks to the Cardinals drafting him third overall. Gibbs could seek a deal that roams around the $55 million guaranteed.

RBs ranking according to guaranteed money

Gibbs remains on his original rookie contract, which carries $17,845,130 in total guarantees. However, league reports indicate the Detroit Lions are actively working on a massive contract extension for Gibbs that is expected to surpass Robinson’s historic deal before the 2026 season kicks off.

The top 5 has a bad trend

Out of the top five running backs with the most guaranteed money in their contracts, there is a negative trend that might explain why this is one of the most interchangeable positions in football. Excluding Saquon Barkley, all the other four RBs are on losing teams.

Love is a rookie, but he is on the Cardinals who were 3-14 last season. The Falcons were 8-9, the Raiders ended last season with a 3-14 record, and the Jets had a 3-14 record too. Add that to the fact that Gibbs and the Lions were 9-8 but dead last in the NFC North and the question should be if there is the need to give out these huge contracts.

“I think it certainly’s not going to hurt,” Campbell said during his press conference. “It’s not going to hurt, but we’ll see. I’m anxious to get Gibbs back out there.

“Every day that goes by, that’s another day that you feel like you miss with him and getting him out there with the guys and him doing his part. But, there again, it’ll get done when it gets done.”

Gibbs is still not practicing with the rest of his teammates at the Lions’ 2026 training camp as he waits for his situation to be resolved. Perhaps what happened with the Falcons will be the first step toward getting a deal done in the near future.

Robinson becomes the NFL’s highest-paid running back

The Atlanta Falcons and two-time Pro Bowl running back Bijan Robinson have agreed to a historic three-year contract extension worth up to $75 million, making him the highest-paid running back in NFL history. Finalized after intense recent negotiations led by agent Nicole Lynn and the Falcons’ front office, the record-setting deal includes $51 million in total guarantees, with $37 million fully guaranteed upon signing.

Gibbs seeks a contract extension

Entering the fourth year of his four-year, $17.84 million fully guaranteed rookie contract with the Detroit Lions, Jahmyr Gibbs is seeking a lucrative extension following back-to-back elite seasons. Aiming to secure a long-term deal that reflects his production as both a runner and receiver, Gibbs has staged a “hold-in” during training camp, remaining present with the team while opting out of practice as negotiations continue.

Though he has publicly downplayed any drama, his representation is pushing for a contract that aligns with the recently reset running back market, moving well beyond his current $4.46 million average annual salary.

Gibbs and Robinson are two of the NFL’s elite running backs

Both Bijan Robinson and Jahmyr Gibbs have earned their pay in the NFL thanks to the impressive numbers they have put up over the past few years. Here are their statistics over the last three seasons.

Following the trade that sent Montgomery to the Houston Texans, Gibbs has become the undisputed RB1. However, “Sonic” may be eyeing a more versatile role than a traditional lead back.

Dan Campbell hinted during the NFL owners’ meetings that Gibbs’ unique talents could be utilized all over the field. He revealed that the team is even considering lining the young star up at wide receiver to maximize his explosive playmaking ability.

“Gibbs, we didn’t view Gibbs as a runner, he was a weapon,” Campbell said. “We felt like Gibbs, this guy is gonna explode. Yes, he’s a runner, he can run all schemes, he can run inside, outside, the perimeters, but he also can be lethal out of the backfield, and we’re not even there yet. We feel like this guy can play some receiver. He’s dynamic and he’s a difference-maker. They don’t come around often.”

A new chapter for the Lions’ offense

There is no doubt that Dan Campbell has revitalized the Lions, but 2025 proved to be a challenging season. Following the exit of Ben Johnson last year, the offense lost the creative spark that had previously made the unit one of the league’s most feared.

After a disappointing stint under John Morton, the Lions moved on and named Drew Petzing as the new offensive coordinator. There are high hopes for Petzing, especially given the wealth of talent at his disposal and his history of creative personnel grouping.

With Campbell confirming that Gibbs could feature prominently as a receiver, it is clear that Petzing is exploring new schematic variations to jumpstart the offense. However, matching the efficiency and production seen under Ben Johnson’s guidance remains a tall order.

A new RB duo in Detroit

Following the Montgomery trade, the Lions moved quickly to bolster their backfield by signing free agent Isiah Pacheco to a one-year, $1.81 million deal. Pacheco is slated to serve as the RB2, with the hope that he can recapture the high-energy form he displayed during his championship years with the Kansas City Chiefs.

While Pacheco is regarded as a physical, downhill runner, his recent injury history has raised some concerns among the fanbase. However, if he can remain healthy, the Lions may once again possess one of the most intimidating backfield duos in the NFL.

“Of course, I want David back,” Gibbs said to Dave Birkett of the Detroit Free Press. “The whole team wants him to stay, but ultimately, it’s up to him.” Gibbs emphasized the uncertainty surrounding Montgomery’s future, yet expressed the collective desire for his return in the upcoming season.

Gibbs also affirmed his unwavering support for Montgomery’s career decisions, noting their strong camaraderie within the team. “He’s going to do what’s best for him and his family, and whatever he decides, I’ll support him 100%. But, of course, we want him back,“ Gibbs added.

Montgomery-Gibbs impact on the Lions last season

Beyond their off-field friendship, Montgomery and Gibbs contributed significantly to the Lions on the field. Their performances throughout the regular season have established a statistical legacy that the Lions are eager to maintain.

Together, they have amassed 6,086 rushing yards, 2,099 receiving yards, and 82 total touchdowns as the NFL’s top running back duo. These numbers underscore not only their value to Detroit but also their appeal to other teams in the league.

Montgomery’s potential suitors

Amidst swirling rumors regarding Montgomery’s future, several teams have been linked to the talented running back. The Dallas Cowboys, Denver Broncos, and Pittsburgh Steelers have been named as potential landing spots for Montgomery as he considers his options for the next season.

Lions’ running back coach, Tashard Choice, knows Jahmyr Gibbs is a massive star. Still, he asked Gibbs to improve on his passing blocking. After all, in Week 9 Goff was sacked five times. In Week 10, none.

Choice spoke on the matter. “Our first thing is protect the football, then protect the quarterback. Pass protection is 80 percent just want to... It’s a three-second fight most of the time. For him, the biggest thing that happened to him was when we came out of the Minnesota game because I was on his a–. Tough, had to be. I was on him. And he responded the right way, and that’s what you want from players.”

Week 10 was really Gibbs’ bounceback game

In Week 9, not only was Goff sacked, but Gibbs also had a season-low 28 yards. Week 10 was another story. Not only did he block way better, he exploded for 172 scrimmage yards and three touchdowns.

Gibbs now has 920 scrimmage yards and 10 total touchdowns in the season. Gibbs is among the elite running backs in the NFL and he clearly provides explosiveness and agility to an otherwise physical backfield.

Choice and Gibbs go way back

These two guys have known each other for a while now. Choice was Gibbs RB coach at Georgia Tech back in 2021. Hence, Choice knows what gets Gibbs going and how to bring the best out of him.

If it’s not broke, don’t fix it, right? Hence, having Choice as Gibbs coach here in Detroit is almost a guaranteed success. As Gibbs keeps improving and evolving, this coach-player duo keeps growing as one of the best in the NFL.

One of the standout performers of the night was Jahmyr Gibbs, one of the most explosive running backs in the league right now. Week 7 proved to be a breakout moment for the former Alabama star, who tore through the Tampa Bay defense with authority.

Dan Campbell knows he has an offense that’s gone from slow to surging — and the scariest part for opponents is that the best may still be yet to come. What fans witnessed at a packed Ford Field was just a preview of what’s on the horizon.

“It’s huge. You felt like this was coming,” the HC said at his press conference. “You felt like this has been building, and as he gets in better shape and starts getting his feet under him, starts getting the feel of it, starts breaking some tackles.

“Every week’s just gotten closer and closer, and tonight was a night where he busted one of these out of there. There will be no looking back. I think he’s just going to continue to do this.”

Gibbs shines bright in primetime

Jahmyr Gibbs delivered a sensational performance last night, powering the Detroit Lions to a decisive 24-9 victory over the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. The dynamic back was the engine of the Lions’ offense, tallying a career-high 218 total scrimmage yards thanks to 17 carries for 136 rushing yards and 2 touchdowns, including a spectacular 78-yard scoring run.

The explosive running back also added 3 receptions for 82 yards, consistently burning the Bucs’ defense and cementing Detroit’s status as a top contender in the NFC. There’s no doubt the former Alabama standout is finding his stride this NFL season.

Taking control of the NFC North

With their latest victory, the Detroit Lions (5-2) continue to battle atop the NFC North standings, where the race for the division crown is turning into a thrilling duel with the Green Bay Packers (4-1-1).

The Lions’ powerful start ensures they remain within striking distance of the division lead, setting the stage for what promises to be a photo-finish contest with Green Bay for control of the NFC North heading into the crucial stretch of the season.

Gibbs’ versatility continues to make him one of the most dynamic weapons in the NFL. The second-year star has quickly become the centerpiece of Detroit’s offense, as he currently has a total of 526 rushing yards and 6 touchdowns through seven games for the Lions, averaging 5.1 yards per game.

The 136 yards against the Buccaneers marked the first time this season that Gibbs recorded over one hundred rushing yards in a single game; his closest previous mark was 91 yards against the Browns. Furthermore, this was his second game this year with two touchdowns, matching his performance against the Ravens.

Fortunately for Gibbs, the Lions do not solely rely on him; they also have David Montgomery, who has also been doing an excellent job this season as the team’s second-best running back.

The Lions’ running backs

The two Lions running backs, Gibbs and Montgomery, have been key to the team’s success so far. Montgomery has recorded 355 yards and 4 touchdowns with an average of 4.6 yards per game on his 78 attempts this season, though he had a modest game of just 24 yards against the Buccaneers.

Having two reliable running backs gives the Lions a significant advantage, as they don’t have to worry about losing their key player if one gets injured. It is highly unlikely both players would be injured at the same time, though such things can happen.

There’s no doubt the Lions have made significant strides in recent years. The arrival of Dan Campbell as head coach in 2021 sparked a major transformation, turning the franchise into a true contender in just a few seasons.

Still, the ultimate goal—a Super Bowl title—remains elusive. To get over that final hurdle, the front office has continued building around Jared Goff, adding key pieces to prove the Lions are legitimate powerhouses in today’s NFL.

Jared Goff will have a “new” wide receiver in 2025

Last season, the Lions entered the playoffs as one of the top contenders in the NFC. Dan Campbell’s squad dominated the regular season, leading many fans to believe a deep postseason run was inevitable.

Detroit’s roster is packed with talent, but the team fell short in the most critical moment, prompting the organization to make adjustments on both the coaching staff and the player roster.

Following the departure of offensive coordinator Ben Johnson, the Lions promoted John Morton to the role. With a new play-caller in charge, the offense is expected to evolve—and the first major change has already been revealed.

Star running back Jahmyr Gibbs, who was occasionally used as a wide receiver last season, has now confirmed he’ll have an even larger role in the passing game. He’s set to line up more frequently as a wideout, giving Goff a versatile and dynamic new target in 2025.

“Nothing too much changed, so a lot of the stuff is the same,” Jahmyr Gibbs said, via WXYZ. “I gotta learn the formations for this, but I’m being split out, I guess, like way more than I was the past two years. That’s good, that’s going to be fun. I’ve been waiting on that. He wants me to be more involved in it, so that’s what he plans on doing.

Who are the wide receivers for the Detroit Lions?

While Gibbs will take on a bigger role as a receiver, the Lions already have an impressive group at the position. His addition only strengthens a unit that’s expected to be one of the most productive in the league.

Amon-Ra St. Brown, Jameson Williams, and Tim Patrick headline Detroit’s wide receiver corps. With Gibbs adding another layer to the offense, the Lions will have more options and flexibility—potentially opening up more space for their primary targets and giving Jared Goff even more weapons to work with.