Jahmyr Gibbs enters the 2026 season as Detroit’s undisputed lead back following David Montgomery’s trade and Isiah Pacheco’s placement on injured reserve, positioning the 24-year-old for a career-high workload after sharing touches in prior years. He posted 1,412 rushing yards in 2024 and 1,223 in 2025 while adding substantial receiving production, and the Lions’ strong offensive line plus new coordinator Drew Petzing’s scheme should sustain efficiency. Gibbs signed a record three-year, $67.5 million extension in August after his fifth-year option was exercised, and he has remained durable aside from a brief training-camp back issue that resolved before Week 1. Analysts project totals ranging from roughly 1,050 to over 1,400 rushing yards depending on volume and health, with the expanded role as the primary driver of elevated expectations amid a favorable schedule.