The highest-paid running backs in the NFL as Jahmyr Gibbs signs historic $67.5 million deal

Detroit Lions running back Jahmyr Gibbs’ new $67.5 million deal ranks him as one of the highest-paid RBs in the entire NFL.

Gibbs has been an instrumental piece of the recent Lions revival, as the fanbase went from wearing paper bags at games to making multiple playoff appearances.

Gibbs’ deal is guaranteed for $51.5 million regardless of circumstance, and it could rise to $76.75 million if he hits all his targets. But where does this rank among the highest-paid NFL RBs next season?

Highest-paid running backs in the NFL before the 2026 season

Gibbs has officially taken the top spot as the highest-paid running back in the entire league, with his new contracts coming out to $22.5 million average annual value.

Over 17 games last season, Gibbs had 243 carries, 1,223 yards (5.0 avg), and 13 TDs while rushing, and 77 receptions, 616 yards (8.0 avg), and 5 TDs while catching.

Gibbs makes slightly more than Atlanta Falcons’ Bijan Robinson, who also signed his extension during the 2026 offseason, but for $22.25 million average annual value.

Indianapolis Colts’ Jonathan Taylor ranks third with a $22 million AAV contract, as the 27-year-old led the Colts to a top record for most of the season until a QB injury crisis ruined their season.

Philadelphia Eagles RB Saquon Barkley ($20.6 M) and San Francisco 49ers’ Christian McCaffrey ($19 M) round out the top five, while Devon Achane ($16 M) of the Miami Dolphins, Derrick Henry ($15 M) of the Baltimore Ravens and Breece Hall ($14.5 M) of the New York Jets.

Whether the Lions regret paying Gibbs remains to be seen, especially when one could argue that players like McCaffrey and Barkley are coming off rough seasons.

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