Jahmyr Gibbs has quickly established himself as one of the NFL’s top running backs, earning comparisons to Reggie Bush for his electrifying playstyle. Entering his third season, the Detroit Lions star has drawn widespread praise from coaches and executives, with an AFC executive likening his speed and versatility to the legendary New Orleans Saints back.
Gibbs’ 2024 campaign was nothing short of spectacular. He totaled 1,929 scrimmage yards and led the league with 20 touchdowns, showcasing his ability to change games with a single play. His 6.4 yards per touch last season ranked as the highest mark for any player with over 250 touches in more than a decade, underscoring his efficiency and explosiveness.
Despite his 5’9” frame, Gibbs has proven he can excel as both a rusher and receiver. Detroit’s offensive schemes have maximized Gibbs’ strengths, allowing him to thrive alongside backfield partner David Montgomery.
While some analysts believe Gibbs is best suited as part of a 1-2 punch, he demonstrated his ability to carry the load during Montgomery’s absence, averaging 5.7 yards per carry over three games. His versatility and instincts make him a nightmare for defenses, whether he’s running between the tackles or catching passes in open space.
AFC Executive Compares Detroit Lions RB Jahmyr Gibbs to Reggie Bush
Just recently, an anonymous AFC executive compared Gibbs to former NFL star Reggie Bush. This can be seen in an analysis by Jeremy Fowler for ESPN.
Gibbs’ raw speed at 5-foot-9 and 200 pounds can “flip the game upside down” on one play, per an NFC scout. And his 6.4 yards per touch last season was the highest mark by any player with 250 touches in a season over the past decade.
“He’s a lot like Reggie Bush, just with a little bit more power,” an AFC executive said. “Size will always be a little bit more of an issue with him, but his speed and instincts and ability to change the game are a problem and may be the best in the league.”
Some evaluators agree Gibbs is best utilized in a 1-2 combo, like he is in Detroit with David Montgomery. As the AFC exec put it, Gibbs can serve as a primary back but “might wear down faster” if asked to absorb too many hits between the tackles due to his size. But he runs with toughness, so it’s not like he wouldn’t be up for the challenge. And Gibbs did just fine in three games without Montgomery late last season, totaling 365 yards on 64 carries.
The comparison to Bush highlights Gibbs’ unique skill set as a dual-threat weapon. Like Bush, Gibbs has the ability to line up anywhere on the field and create mismatches, giving Detroit endless offensive possibilities. This adaptability has propelled him to the No. 3 spot in ESPN’s running back rankings for 2025, trailing only Saquon Barkley and Derrick Henry.
As the Lions adjust to new coordinators, Jahmyr Gibbs’ role will be even more critical in maintaining the team’s offensive momentum. His speed, instincts, and game-breaking ability have positioned him as one of the league’s most exciting young players. Gibbs’ growth suggests he’s on the path to becoming a true cornerstone for Detroit’s future success.
