RB Jahmyr Gibbs, the Detroit Lions’ 12th overall pick, explains how he might fit in with the Lions’ new look.
For Jahmyr Gibbs, his ability to not only run the ball but also catch it well began in one of the most sacred places for a growing soccer star – the backyard.
The freshman Detroit Lions running back says his pass-catching skills started with a group of friends playing 7v7 in the backyard where he also found himself wanting to catch the ball.
“Throughout my playing career I’ve played several positions like receiver, running back, and I’ve played (defensive back) too — you’ve got to have a hand to do that,” he said.
You sure do, and that’s what drew Lions general manager Brad Holmes and co to the young talent from Alabama. Drafted by the Lions 12th overall, Gibbs spoke with Tim Twentyman about where his versatility comes from and how he fits into this offense.
“I think they plan to use me almost as much as they did at Alabama, maybe a little bit more outfield and stuff, and run more tracks, not just goals and hurdles and ramps and stuff, maybe more realistic receiving methods,” Gibbs said.
Justin Milo of The Draft Network agrees. Here’s what he says you might see from The Newbie:
Expect Johnson to use Gibbs via wheel and option routes. Gibbs’ understanding of spacing and how to create separation will give him the upper hand against opposing linebackers. Johnson has the option of moving Gibbs into a wide receiver alignment due to his nuance as a road runner. Modern NFL offenses are constantly looking for opportunities to mismatch. Gibbs will save a lot.”
Last season, Gibbs rushed for 926 yards on 151 carries and ran for seven touchdowns, while catching 44 passes for 444 yards and three touchdowns. He ranks second in Crimson Tide single-season history for catches by a running back.
“Gibbs should be most effective when paired with a back like (David) Montgomery who can handle the dirty work. This is exactly why Holmes has identified Gibbs as Montgomery’s change-of-pace partner. Expectations are high for the Lions and were raised when they drafted an immediate shareholder in the Lions,” Milo writes. Gibbs.
In the rest of this episode of “Twentyman in the Huddle,” Gibbs recaps his night’s experience, and Lions’ freshman linebacker Jack Campbell stops by to explain what he’ll bring to Detroit. Watch it all below:
And for the rest of your comments.
- “Lions go for it. If it wasn’t obvious before, it should be now.” The Athletic’s Colton Pouncey and Nick Baumgardner put all their ideas together Understand this wild lions project. (dollar)
- It’s deserved, but I think it goes without saying.
- “The most important part of the draft process is making sure the prospect fits the team’s blueprint and culture.” One player in particular made Bucky Brooks’ list Top 10 best team players.
- “I really don’t understand the post-draft hatred for Detroit that I’ve seen in some circles. Sure, it was a whirlwind road the first night. But black GM Brad Holmes ended up with a couple of great football players.” More lions love this time than Adam Shine from NFL.com.
- Tracy Walker and Dearborn Mayor Abdullah Hammoud tour the Arab American National Museum together:
- Can Detroit beat that? I think it can.
- Say what you will about Brad Holmes, the man has style:
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