The Lions drew a hard line between the positional value of Jahmyr Gibbs and Jack Campbell
Photo by Steven King/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images Detroit’s decision around fifth-year options made one thing clear: the Lions are strict about how they assign value across their squad. They were happy to commit $14. 29 million to Jahmyr Gibbs for 2027 but turned down Jack Campbell’s $21.
9 million option, even after his All-Pro campaign. It wasn’t a matter of preference between the two players — it was about Detroit maintaining a firm distinction between impact and cost. Gibbs isn’t just putting up numbers; he’s become a real problem for defences.
The Lions understand that teams have to plan around his speed, receiving skills, and knack for turning small gaps into big gains. The numbers back that up too. According to the Associated Press, Gibbs is just the fourth player in league history to hit 4,500 yards from scrimmage and 45 touchdowns within his first three seasons.
While $14. 29 million is a high price for most running backs, it’s easier to justify when you consider the matchup problems he creates. Campbell’s price was distorted by the formula It wasn’t performance that led to Detroit declining Campbell’s option.
The real issue was how the fifth-year option groups off-ball linebackers with edge rushers in the same pay bracket. Pride of Detroit explained it well. Campbell’s 2027 option would have been higher than the current top salary for off-ball linebackers across the league.