Full Breakdown
Detroit Lions Exercise Fifth-Year Option on RB Jahmyr Gibbs, Decline on LB Jack Campbell
4/29/2026, 3:56:40 AM
Contract Decision Overview
On April 28, 2026 the Detroit Lions announced they will exercise the fifth-year option on 2023 first-round running back Jahmyr Gibbs, guaranteeing $14.293 million for the 2027 season. The same day they declined the comparable option on linebacker Jack Campbell, which would have cost $21.925 million in 2027. Both players remain under contract through 2026, and the team intends to negotiate long-term extensions with each.
Context: Fifth-Year Option Mechanics
Under the NFL collective bargaining agreement, a fifth-year option’s salary is set by draft slot, position and Pro Bowl status. Running backs share a single salary tier, making Gibbs’ $14.3 million figure relatively modest. Linebackers are grouped with edge rushers, inflating Campbell’s option to roughly $22 million, comparable to the league’s highest-paid defensive ends.
Player Profiles & Numbers
- Jahmyr Gibbs – 12th overall (2023), three Pro Bowls; 2025: 1,223 rushing yards, 13 rushing TDs, 77 receptions for 616 yards, five receiving TDs.
- Jack Campbell – 18th overall (2023), first-team All-Pro and Butkus Award (2025); 2025: 176 tackles (2nd in NFL), nine TFL, five sacks, four PD, three FF.
- Brad Holmes – General manager.
Official Statements & Responses
General manager Brad Holmes said the Lions are “still having those discussions and trying to see what we’re going to do. But we’re having open dialogue” about Campbell’s contract. He added that declining the option “does not indicate his time in Detroit is nearing its end” and that the team aims for a lower-cap-hit agreement that reflects Campbell’s market value.
Criticism & Opposition
Analysts have called the move a “dodging a bullet,” suggesting cap constraints drove the decision. Some warn that postponing a long-term deal could jeopardize retaining Campbell if negotiations stall, highlighting tension between fiscal prudence and roster stability.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
Sources list Campbell’s option as $21.925 million, $22 million, and “near $22 million,” while Gibbs’ option appears as $14.293 million and “about $14.2 million.” No timeline for the extensions has been disclosed.
Verbatim Quotes
- “We’re still having those discussions and trying to see what we’re going to do. But we’re having open dialogue,” — Brad Holmes, GM, Lions
- “Gibbs, we didn’t view Gibbs as a runner; he was a weapon,” — Dan Campbell, Head Coach, Lions
- “ Miller says that the Lions "absolutely consider Campbell part of their plans going forward," but getting a longer deal done makes more sense for Detroit versus the option year in 2027.” — Dan Miller, Fox 2 (tweet)
- “Have learned the @Lions are picking up the 5th year option on RB Jahmyr Gibbs.” — Dan Miller, Fox 2 (tweet)
What’s Next
The Lions must complete extensions with Gibbs and Campbell before the May 1 deadline. Tight end Sam LaPorta and safety Brian Branch, also entering the final year of their rookie deals, are slated for negotiations, indicating a busy offseason for Detroit.
