When the Detroit Lions aggressively traded up for former Alabama running back Jahmyr Gibbs in the first round of the 2023 NFL Draft, it was clear the team believed he could be a game-changer.
Gibbs proved to be amongst the most versatile running backs in the country during his one season with the Crimson Tide as he posted 926 rushing yards, 444 receiving yards and 10 total touchdowns.
Being a threat through the air and on the ground has allowed Lions offensive coordinator Ben Johnson to get creative with the rookie this fall, especially after the team signed former Chicago Bears back David Montgomery to pair alongside him.
While speaking with the media last weekend, Johnson teased that Gibbs may have an unexpected role in the team’s offense this year.
“We might use Gibbs in some ways that people don’t quite think we might,” Johnson said according to Lions reporter Tim Twentyman.
Interesting from Lions OC Ben Johnson on rookie RB Jahmyr Gibbs: "We might use Gibbs in some ways that people don’t quite think we might."
— Tim Twentyman (@ttwentyman) September 2, 2023
The Lions will have its first opportunity to display what exactly they have in store with Gibbs on Thursday, Sept. 7 when it kicks off the NFL season against the defending champion Kansas City Chiefs at 7:20 CT on NBC.
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