Discussion: In the annals of Detroit Lions running backs, where does Jahmyr Gibbs stand? This week, we have already discussed the potential for Amon-Ra St. Brown to be regarded as a top-three receiver in the history of the Detroit Lions, as well as the fact that Penei Sewell is in the same conversation at offensive tackle.
The subsequent Lions player we will discuss has likely not yet established a reputation of that caliber; however, it is feasible that he will do so within the next season or two. The Lions have recently concluded an exceptional sophomore season with running back Jahmyr Gibbs.
He amassed 1,412 yards on the ground, averaging 5.6 yards per carry, and scored 16 rushing touchdowns. That ranks as one of the most exceptional rushing seasons in Lions history, even without accounting for his receiving contributions. His 1,412 rushing yards rank ninth in Lions history, trailing only Barry Sanders’ top-seven seasons and
Billy Sims’ 1981 campaign. Two years ago, Jamaal Williams eclipsed his 16 rushing touchdowns. Additionally, his 5.7 yards per carry (minimum 150 carries) rank third all-time, trailing only two Sanders seasons.What is Jahmyr Gibbs’ position in the Lions’ all-time RB rankings? My response: Although last year was the type of rushing season
that the Lions have only ever experienced when Barry Sanders was active, Gibbs will require significantly more playing time before he can be considered one of the Lions’ all-time greats. With only two seasons of experience, Gibbs currently occupies the sixteenth position in Lions rushing yards. He would ascend to seventh place with an additional 1000-yard season.
He would ascend to fourth position if he were to surpass 2,000 in a single season. Gibbs would likely challenge for the top three among two of Detroit’s most prominent icons: Barry Sanders and Billy Sims, and it would require only two complete seasons of strong production to enter the top-five discussion.
Even so, Gibbs appears to have already surpassed many of those players in his early career, as there are only 10 players who have rushed for 1,000 yards in a season for the Lions. Examine the following: Barry Sanders (x10) Billy Sims (x3) Jahmyr Gibbs James Stewart (two times) Kevin Jones Jamaal Williams Steve Owens James Stewart David Montgomery
Reggie Bush Gibbs is unquestionably superior to whom among that group? Owens was selected to the Pro Bowl during his 1,000-yard season, but his career was ultimately disappointing. James Stewart’s tenure in Detroit was brief, and despite twice surpassing 1,000 yards, his average yardage per carry with the Lions was a mere 4.1. Gibbs has
already eclipsed Reggie Bush’s two-year performance statistics in Detroit. In summary, I do not believe that any individual, with the exception of Detroit’s top two running backs, has a compelling argument for being superior to Gibbs.There are additional factors that warrant consideration. Mel Farr earned two Pro Bowls and was named Offensive Rookie of the Year.
Dexter Bussey began precisely 100 games for the Lions over the course of 11 seasons, totaling more than 1,000 scrimmage yards on three separate occasions. In the 1950s, Bob Hoernschemeyer produced a few Pro Bowls. However, it is important to remember another returnee from the 1950s: Doak Walker, a member of the Pro Football Hall of Fame.
The 1950s’ running back/kicker was recognized with two championships, four All-Pro honors, and five Pro Bowl appearances. He must be ahead of Gibbs at this time, despite the fact that the statistics do not correspond to those of the modern era. So, I believe it is feasible to argue that Gibbs is already considered the fourth-best running back in Lions history,
trailing only three Lions icons: Barry Sanders, Billy Sims, and Doak Walker. Gibbs will challenge all individuals on the list except Sanders if he maintains his current pace and maintains a career that spans at least six or seven years. What is your assessment of Gibbs’ current status? Let us know by scrolling down to the comment section.
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