RESOLVING THE LEDGER
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See the full story · 4 sourcesIt’s a great time to be an NFL running back after a recent string of contract extensions, and Jahmyr Gibbs is the latest beneficiary of a monster deal.
The Detroit Lions star is one of the elite runners in the league and now he’s truly being paid like it. In fact, the former college football standout is set to become the highest-paid player at his position in NFL history.
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Gibbs is undoubtedly a dynamic running back and Detroit plans on utilizing him as a workhorse in 2026. This comes after David Montgomery moved on this offseason to the Houston Texans.
Detroit Lions running back Jahmyr Gibbs (26) and running back David Montgomery (5) celebrate 34-31 win over Green Bay Packers as he exits the field at Ford Field in Detroit on Thursday, Dec. 5, 2024. Credit: USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect (Reuters) The Lions are paying Gibbs north of $75 million if his entire contract is paid out. Meanwhile, he’s set to make at least $51.5 million in guaranteed money.
Now, the former Alabama star becomes the highest-paid RB just three days after Bijan Robinson and the Atlanta Falcons agreed to terms on a contract that could be worth over $75 million, per Spotrac .
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Both Gibbs and Robinson are viewed as two of the best rushers in the league, so it’s only fitting that they are being paid handsomely.
Next man up
Atlanta Falcons running back Bijan Robinson against the Arizona Cardinals. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images Credit: IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect (Reuters) Gibbs is entering his first campaign in 2026 as the true feature back for Detroit. Dan Campbell and Co. are certainly leaning heavily on their young talent without Montgomery present.
Meanwhile, it’s been a busy time for running backs recently after receiving several major contracts. Jonathon Taylor joins Gibbs and Robinson with massive extensions heading into the new campaign.
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The Indianapolis Colts runner is staying with the AFC South team for at least another two seasons. This comes after his extension promises $39 million guaranteed after finishing third in rush yards in 2025.
Top 11 highest-paid NFL running backs
Jan 4, 2026; Chicago, Illinois, USA; Detroit Lions running back Jahmyr Gibbs (0) celebrates with teammates after scoring a touchdown against the Chicago Bears during the first half at Soldier Field. Mandatory Credit: Matt Marton-Imagn Images Credit: IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect (Reuters) Jahmyr Gibbs – Contract worth up to $75.75 million, $51.5 million guaranteed
Bijan Robinson – Contract worth up to $75 million, $51 million guaranteed
De’Von Achane – Contract worth up to $64 million, $32 million guaranteed
Jeremiyah Love – $53 million guaranteed and total value
Travis Etienne Jr. – $52 million total value, $28 million guaranteed
Jonathan Taylor – Contract worth up to $47 million, $39 million guaranteed
Josh Jacobs – $48 million total value, $12.5 million guaranteed
James Cook – $48 million total value, $30 million guaranteed
Breece Hall – Contract worth up to $43.5 million, $29 million guaranteed
Kenneth Walker III – $43.05 million total value, $28.7 million guaranteed
Saquon Barkley – Contract worth up to $41.2 million, $36 million guaranteed
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