Bijan Robinson, Jahmyr Gibbs hold-ins put RB contracts in camp spotlight
Bijan Robinson and Jahmyr Gibbs are at training camp but not practicing as both star running backs seek long-term extensions.
By Deshawn Carter · Sports Writer
3 min read
Bijan Robinson and Jahmyr Gibbs hold-ins have turned two NFL training camps into contract-watch territory, with CBS Sports reporting that both running backs are present with their teams but sitting out practice while they seek long-term extensions.
The Atlanta Falcons and Detroit Lions have already exercised the fifth-year options on Robinson and Gibbs, according to CBS Sports, leaving each player with two seasons left on his rookie deal. In practical terms, their teams still control two years of contract time, even as both players push for new money sooner.
Robinson and Gibbs were both first-round picks, and their current situations flow from the rookie contract system tied to the NFL draft and rookie deals. CBS Sports reported that Robinson ranks 27th among NFL running backs in total salary, while Gibbs ranks 31st.
Why are Bijan Robinson and Jahmyr Gibbs holding in?
A hold-in means a player reports to camp but does not take part in practice, avoiding the full walkout of a holdout while still applying pressure during contract talks. CBS Sports reported that Robinson and Gibbs are using that route after failing to secure extensions during the offseason.
Robinson’s case carries the biggest number on the board. CBS Sports reported that he led the NFL last season with 2,298 all-purpose yards and is expected to become the league’s highest-paid running back when he eventually signs his next deal.
There is also a timeline forming in Atlanta. CBS Sports reported there appears to be a belief that Robinson and the Falcons could reach an agreement between now and the start of the regular season.
Gibbs’ situation in Detroit looks less settled, at least publicly. CBS Sports described his extension outlook as less certain, even though the Lions running back has been a Pro Bowler in each of his first three seasons.
Lions coach Dan Campbell was asked Wednesday about Gibbs and did not suggest a quick public resolution. “This will kind of continue,” Campbell said, according to CBS Sports. “It’ll come as it comes. I think that's the best way to say it. This is both sides working through something and we'll take it as it comes, but that's where it is.”
What is happening with the running back market?
The timing matters because running back pay has rebounded after a rough stretch earlier in the decade, according to CBS Sports. Last offseason, Saquon Barkley became the first running back to average more than $20 million per year after reaching an extension with the Philadelphia Eagles.
CBS Sports reported that Barkley is one of seven running backs now averaging at least $14 million annually. Robinson and Gibbs are expected to join that group when they sign their next contracts.
For now, both teams have their stars in the building, just not on the practice field. The next move belongs to the contract talks, and the calendar is already working against quiet negotiations as training camp rolls on.
This story draws on original reporting from CBS Sports.