Detroit Lions running back Jahmyr Gibbs broke Barry Sanders’ record for most touchdowns by an NFL player under the age of 25 after rushing for 151 yards and two touchdowns in a 45-21 victory over the Arizona Cardinals on October 14. At 24 years old, Gibbs now has 58 career touchdowns, one more than Sanders had before his 25th birthday.
Gibbs’ performance earned him the NFC Offensive Player of the Week award, adding to his reputation as one of the league’s most dynamic backs. Through five weeks, he ranks fourth in rushing yards with 504 on 105 carries and leads the NFL with nine total touchdowns, seven of which are rushing.
Lions quarterback Jared Goff praised Gibbs after the game, saying, “Impressive. Very cool that it’s Barry’s record, too. A lot of comparisons there, but yeah, he’s unbelievable. He really is.”
Gibbs has already won Offensive Player of the Week honors four times in his career, including Week 18 of the 2024 season and Weeks 10 and 12 last year. His ability to break tackles and make plays after contact was evident against the Cardinals, with Goff noting, “He made a lot of guys miss in the backfield and got a lot after the first touch and obviously caught the ball well out of the backfield. I think he had what, 56 yards through the air. Gosh, he’s electric and I think you kind of saw the full scope of what we’re capable of.”
Despite his youth, Gibbs has already established himself as a consistent threat in both the run and passing games. His blend of speed, vision, and receiving skills makes him a versatile weapon for Detroit’s offense.
After the game, Gibbs made his ambitions clear, setting his sights on the single-season touchdown record held by Hall of Fame running back LaDainian Tomlinson. Tomlinson set the mark with 31 touchdowns in the 2006 season.
“For sure. I’m trying to get that,” Gibbs said.
The Lions have leaned on Gibbs heavily this season, with his nine touchdowns leading the league. His production has been a bright spot in Detroit’s offense, which has struggled at times to find consistency.
Gibbs turns 25 next March, meaning he still has time to add to his touchdown total and build on his record-breaking pace. His current trajectory places him among the most prolific scorers in NFL history before reaching that age.
Detroit Free Press reporter Dave Birkett, who covers the Lions, has followed Gibbs’ rise closely. Gibbs’ ability to break Barry Sanders’ touchdown record is a notable achievement given Sanders’ legendary status in Detroit.
The Lions’ offense will look to maintain momentum as the season progresses, with Gibbs expected to remain a central figure in their game plan. His latest performance against the Cardinals confirms his status as one of the NFL’s most exciting young backs.
According to Yahoo Sports.