Detroit Lions general manager Brad Holmes exercised rookie running back Jahmyr Gibbs’ fifth‑year option on Thursday, locking him in through the 2027 season. The move, reported by Sports Illustrated, clears the path for the front office to pursue extensions with tight end Sam LaPorta and safety Brian Branch before they hit unrestricted free agency.
Jahmyr Gibbs’ contract and its impact on Detroit
Jahmyr Gibbs, the 2023 fifth‑round pick who burst onto the league with big‑play ability, now carries a guaranteed roster spot and a cap hit that runs through 2027. By nailing the deal early, the Lions avoid a late‑season scramble that often forces teams into an over‑paying market. The front office can now allocate cap dollars toward other key pieces without fearing a sudden spike in Gibbs’ price tag.
Why the Gibbs extension matters for roster building
Securing Gibbs gives the Lions flexibility to match offers for LaPorta and Branch, both of whom lack fifth‑year options and will be in the final year of their rookie contracts. The move also keeps the offense balanced, pairing Gibbs’ explosiveness with Amon‑Ra St. Brown’s receiving skill.
Sam LaPorta and Brian Branch: contract outlook
Sam LaPorta and Brian Branch are projected to command sizable extensions once their second‑round deals expire. LaPorta, a reliable pass‑catcher, could see a contract in the $10‑$15 million per‑year range, while Branch’s safety play may fetch a similar figure if he continues to impress on defense.
Key Developments
- Gibbs’ fifth‑year option was exercised, extending his contract through 2027.
- LaPorta and Branch enter the final year of their rookie deals without fifth‑year options.
- Brad Holmes has a reputation for quick extensions, a trend that began after the Lions’ 2024 playoff push.
- The Lions’ 2026 cap space remains healthy, giving room for “hefty” deals without hurting other moves.
Impact and next steps for the Detroit Lions
With Gibbs locked up, Detroit is in a strong position to negotiate LaPorta and Branch deals before the 2026 offseason. If both players sign early, the Lions solidify the core of a balanced offense and secondary, keeping the team in contention for a deep playoff run. A delay could spark a bidding war, inflating cap hits and limiting flexibility for free‑agent signings.
Why this matters to Lions fans
Fans gain peace of mind when the team locks up its up‑and‑coming players early. The move shows the front office is not waiting for market pressure, which should keep the roster stable and the salary‑cap outlook favorable.
When does Jahmyr Gibbs become a free agent if not extended?
Without the fifth‑year option, Gibbs would have hit free agency after the 2026 season, but the Lions exercised the option, keeping him under contract through 2027.
What is the typical salary range for a second‑round tight end like Sam LaPorta?
Second‑round tight ends who earn extensions after their rookie deals usually secure contracts in the $10‑$15 million per‑year range, reflecting their increased role and production.
How does the Lions’ cap situation compare to other NFC North teams?
Detroit entered the 2026 fiscal year with roughly $15 million in available cap space, a modest advantage over the Bears and Vikings, who each carried tighter caps after recent free‑agent spending.
