Lions want RB Jahmyr Gibbs to 'go to that next level' as a receiver in Year 2

Last season, after a gap of 32 years, Detroit made it to the NFC Championship Game. This was largely due to their potent offense, which ranked in the top five in the league for passing, rushing and scoring averages.

With most of that offense returning in 2024, the Lions enter this upcoming season as full-fledged Super Bowl contenders for the first time in a long time, and the expected second-year growth of running back Jahmyr Gibbs as a pass-catcher might be the element which gets Detroit its first-ever Super Bowl appearance.

“What we need him to do from a passing game standpoint is go to that next level,” Lions assistant head coach and running backs coach Scottie Montgomery said of Gibbs this week, via The Detroit Free Press. “I do think there’s a certain difference between route running from the backfield and being a really, really sufficient and efficient check-down runner versus what it is to be a great route runner, a guy that can run all types of choice (routes). We know we’ve seen him do those things, but now can you go into the slot and do a little bit more down the field? Some intermediate stuff, can we continue to grow him there? And that’s what we’re trying to do.”

Gibbs flourished as the team’s change-of-pace rusher alongside David Montgomery during his stellar rookie season, averaging 5.2 yards per carry (945 yards) and finding pay dirt 10 times. Despite finishing third on the team in receptions (52), however, there was plenty left to be desired for Gibbs as a receiver with totals of 316 yards (6.1 yard average) and one touchdown.

The concept of Gibbs positioning himself in the slot, particularly in a pre-snap motion situation, is fascinating. This twist could not only create a disadvantage for whoever is assigned to guard Gibbs, but it could also pressure rival defenses into making choices that give Lions’ playmakers more freedom elsewhere. Plus, it could be a strategic maneuver that enables an unexpected play call.

The potential for Gibbs to utilize his breakaway speed in open spaces as a receiver may increase, offering a formula for Detroit to sustain their offensive power.

“Consistency for 17 games is the next step,” said Scottie Montgomery. “We’ve seen Game 1, Game 2, Game 3, Game 4. We’re beyond the stage where he is just getting the hang of it. He understands this aspect of pass protection. He’s already there. Now he needs to grasp that part of it and the obligations that come with it.”

The second aspect we’re discussing pertains to his capabilities. He was prepared to take on more responsibilities last year. The skills of our other players, particularly in the positions of receiver and tight end, can sometimes harmonize in such a way that the ball gets evenly distributed.

Lions offensive coordinator Ben Johnson, who turned down head coaching jobs this offseason to remain in Detroit, could also get more creative by virtue of Gibbs’ potential growth as a receiver. It would fulfill an offseason loss, too, with Josh Reynolds, who caught 40 balls for 608 yards and five touchdowns in 2023, taking his talents to Denver.

Gibbs’ potential for offensive prowess should increase his value in fantasy football, but efforts to develop him as a well-rounded weapon aim to prevent complacency and help the Lions excel.

“The tape reveals everything,” said Montgomery. “The entire story is on the tape. It’s my belief that for exceptionally talented individuals, transitioning from good to great can be the most challenging. Many people assume that reaching that level signifies a job well done. However, at this moment, everyone feels that we didn’t measure up, which is our strategy to combat complacency. It’s also the approach we’re taking to progress further, and that’s our expectation. We anticipate seeing another step forward.”