At the heart of Lions Training Camp this summer, one thing is crystal clear: Jahmyr Gibbs is not just ready — he’s coming for more.

The 2023 first-round pick has been turning heads ever since he arrived in Detroit, but what we’re seeing now is different. Sharper. Stronger. More confident. And above all, more involved.

In a camp filled with aggressive defensive takeaways, contested plays, and fierce competition across all positions, Gibbs continues to shine as a dynamic, versatile weapon in Detroit’s offense. From screen passes and outside runs to slot routes and two-back formations with David Montgomery, Gibbs has been everywhere — and he’s been electric.

“He’s no longer just a rookie learning the ropes,” said one Lions coach. “He’s becoming the guy defenses have to account for every single snap.”

THE NEXT-LEVEL JUMPOFF

Gibbs’ rookie season was impressive — 945 rushing yards, 10 total touchdowns, and countless highlight-reel plays. But that was just the beginning.

What the Lions are now preparing to unleash is a more complete running back, one who can not only torch linebackers with speed, but also outthink them with vision, punish defenders with strength, and catch like a receiver downfield.

During a full-team red-zone drill this week, Jared Goff hit Gibbs with a no-look swing pass — Gibbs caught it in stride, juked one linebacker, split two defenders, and accelerated into the endzone. Coaches didn’t just cheer — they roared.

“That’s a grown-man play,” said a Lions reporter. “And that’s not something you saw much in Year 1. Gibbs has arrived.”

A NEW OFFENSIVE WEAPON FOR BEN JOHNSON

Offensive coordinator Ben Johnson, known for his creative and adaptive play-calling, has made it clear: Gibbs is no longer just a piece of the puzzle — he’s a featured weapon.

Fans at training camp have already seen Gibbs motioned into the slot, lined up as an X receiver, or taking direct snaps in motion. Johnson is clearly designing packages to put the ball in Gibbs’ hands in space, where he’s one of the most dangerous players in the league.

Pair that with Montgomery’s power-running style and the return of a healthy O-line, and Detroit may have one of the most dynamic backfield tandems in the NFL.

THE MENTAL SHIFT

But it’s not just the physical tools. Those have always been there. What stands out this camp is Gibbs’ leadership and mental presence.

“He’s speaking up more in meetings,” said a veteran teammate. “You can see he wants to take ownership. He’s not just following the vets — he’s stepping up beside them.”

It’s this quiet confidence — not cockiness — that’s got everyone in Allen Park buzzing. Coaches are trusting him more on key downs. Teammates are looking to him when plays break down. And Goff? He’s targeting Gibbs more than ever.

WHAT TO EXPECT THIS SEASON

If Training Camp is any indication, the Lions are getting ready to:

✅ Increase Gibbs’ snap count
✅ Feature him more in the passing game
✅ Use him in motion and misdirection plays
✅ Give him goal-line work alongside Montgomery
✅ Let him take over games in crunch time

With the Lions aiming for an NFC Championship push, Gibbs is no longer just a spark — he’s becoming a central flame in Detroit’s offensive engine.