Jahmyr Gibbs Modeled Game After Alvin Kamara, Christian McCaffrey
The Detroit Lions made a big move in the first round of the 2023 NFL Draft.
A trade moved them from sixth to 12th overall. With that pick, Detroit general manager Brad Holmes selected Alabama running back Jahmyr Gibbs.
The Lions added a versatile running back who also can contribute in the passing game. He'll be an instant contributor for offensive coordinator Ben Johnson.
The rookie has a unique skillset. He's modeled his game after two of the top active running backs, while drawing inspiration from Hall of Famers Marshall Faulk and Barry Sanders.
"Alvin Kamara, Christian McCaffrey, I like Jamaal Charles," Gibbs said. "I used to watch Marshall Faulk a lot and obviously, Barry (Sanders)."
The rookie is set to join David Montgomery in Detroit's backfield. D'Andre Swift remains on the roster, but is reportedly on the trade block heading into the second round Friday.
Gibbs will make an instant impact on the offense. With his skillset as a receiver, the Lions will be able to use him creatively.
“I’m not sure people that follow (just) the NFL realize what Jahmyr Gibbs is going to be for Detroit," said ESPN college football analyst Kirk Herbstreit on The Pat McAfee Show. "Think about what Detroit did last year, offensively. And now you get that weapon. Think Alvin Kamara. Think Christian McCaffrey. That’s who (Gibbs) is. This guy isn’t just a running back that can run routes. He can line up in the slot and run like a wide receiver. I mean, he is a matchup nightmare. And then he can get physical. He’s a 200-pound back, he can run between the tackles. So, that was a great pick."
The young running back began his college career at Georgia Tech, before transferring to Alabama for his final season. Though he said he had limited interactions with Crimson Tide head coach Nick Saban, he noted that their conversations were impactful and prepared him for a professional career.
"We didn't talk a lot because, you know, he's with the defense," Gibbs said. "But, when we did talk, it was always a great conversation. Always positive. He's helped me by how he's run the program, very detailed in what he does, very consistent with it."
In his college career, Gibbs served as a running back, slot receiver and wide receiver. He possesses rare versatility.
Coming from an illustrious program like Alabama, the rookie wants to continue on a winning trajectory as he begins his professional career.
"I mean, I want to win," Gibbs explained. "I'm just gonna do all the work and I would say winning. But, everything comes, like all the awards and all that, that comes with winning. Once you win, all that will be taken care of."
