Detroit Lions’ Jahmyr Gibbs Set to Return for Season Opener Against Los Angeles Rams
Detroit, MI – After weeks of uncertainty surrounding the health of Detroit Lions running back Jahmyr Gibbs, fans can finally breathe a sigh of relief. The team released its injury report ahead of their season opener against the Los Angeles Rams, and Gibbs is notably absent from the list, signaling his full recovery from a hamstring injury sustained in an August 12 training camp practice.
Gibbs Ready to Go
Gibbs, the Lions’ No. 12 overall pick in the 2023 NFL Draft, appears to be in top form. Head coach Dan Campbell had previously voiced concerns about players returning to game speed after injuries, especially those like Gibbs who rely heavily on their pace.
“When you can run like he runs—I mean, this guy can run—then if you don’t touch that speed in practice at least once or twice a day, you set yourself up for something to happen on Sunday,” Campbell said. “We’re on it, he’s doing it, and we like where he’s at.”
In his rookie season, Gibbs impressed by clocking 1,261 yards and 11 total touchdowns across 15 games. Now, with his injury behind him, Gibbs is expected to be a key component in the Lions’ offense when they face the Rams on Sunday, September 8.
Injury Report Clears the Way
Not only is Gibbs clear to play, but offensive tackle Penei Sewell was also not listed on the Lions’ injury report, meaning the team will head into their season opener with two of their most important offensive pieces ready to take the field.
A More Confident Gibbs
In a recent interview with ESPN on September 3, Gibbs confirmed his recovery, expressing confidence in his current condition: “I’m good. I’m straight. I just had a little tweak,” he said. “I’m hoping we have a pretty good year. I’m just more confident, know the offense more, so it helps a lot with everything that’s involved.”
Looking Ahead to a Bigger Role
Lions general manager Brad Holmes spoke highly of Gibbs’ progression during the offseason and hinted that the running back could see an increased workload this season.
“I definitely would expect him to see more of a load,” Holmes said earlier this year on The Rich Eisen Show. “Even when he had some pops in that K.C. game in that opener, I was watching, I was like, ‘He’s still trying to get the feel of the game.’ But once he got that sweet spot… you’re seeing exactly what you saw at Alabama.”
With Gibbs back in action and ready to take on more responsibility, the Lions are hopeful he will continue to grow as a standout player in their offense this season.
