Detroit Lions Anticipate Jahmyr Gibbs' Return Ahead of Season Opener
The Detroit Lions are on the brink of a potential boost to their offensive arsenal as running back Jahmyr Gibbs continues his recovery from a hamstring injury. The Lions' head coach, Dan Campbell, remains optimistic about Gibbs' progress and his availability for the team's Week 1 matchup against the Los Angeles Rams.
Gibbs' injury, sustained during a practice session earlier this month, had cast a shadow over the Lions' preparations for the upcoming season. However, Campbell's latest updates bring a ray of hope to the training camp, with the coach noting, "Our plan is to get him going next week."
The team is set to wrap up their preseason with a final game against the Pittsburgh Steelers on Saturday. As the Lions gear up for this crucial contest, the focus increasingly shifts to securing the health and fitness of key players, including Gibbs. "He's trending the right way," Campbell remarked regarding Gibbs' recovery process.
In his debut season, Gibbs demonstrated his value to the team, amassing an impressive 945 rushing yards and 10 touchdowns over 182 carries. This performance ranked him second on the team in rushing yards, touchdowns, and carries. His versatility extended to the receiving game as well, with Gibbs recording 52 receptions for 316 yards and one touchdown. Adding to this, his playoff contributions included 144 rushing yards and three touchdowns on 29 carries, alongside 94 yards and one touchdown on 14 receptions.
Gibbs' all-around skill set makes him integral to the Lions’ offensive strategy, underscoring the importance of his return. Campbell admitted to some concerns about Gibbs' limited practice time but remained hopeful about his recovery trajectory. "Wish we had more practice with him, but as far as the health of it, he's healing and he's on schedule to be back, and get his legs back under him. And we'll see where he's at," he explained.
The anticipation builds not just around Gibbs, but also regarding several other key players who are on the mend. Following the final preseason game, Campbell has hinted at a significant number of players returning to action. "We're hoping the day after [this Saturday's preseason finale against the Steelers], I think we're going to get a lot of guys back," he shared, with optimism brimming in his tone.
Among the anticipated returnees are tight end Sam LaPorta, offensive tackle Dan Skipper, guard Kevin Zeitler, linebacker Malcolm Rodriguez, and defensive lineman DJ Reader. This influx of players back to the roster could be pivotal in how the Lions approach their rigorous preparation week leading up to the Rams game.
The Lions are vigilant in their injury management but maintain a forward-looking approach. "So, we're about to get a whole group of guys back, hopefully Sunday," Campbell commented, highlighting the critical timeline. He further added, "And then they'll get next week's practice before we get ready for the Rams and then we do Rams practice. So, Gibbs falls into that boat."
As the clock ticks down to the Lions' season opener, all eyes will be on how swiftly Gibbs and his teammates reintegrate into full team practice. The hope is that this revitalized roster will carry its momentum into the regular season, propelling the Lions toward a competitive start against the Rams.