The Detroit Lions are facing important decisions regarding the contracts of their 2023 first-round draft picks, including running back Jahmyr Gibbs. The NFL has released the fifth-year option costs for these players, providing a clearer picture of the financial implications for the Lions.
Gibbs’ Fifth-Year Option Value Revealed
The fifth-year option figure for Jahmyr Gibbs is $14,293,000. If the Lions activate this option, Gibbs would be under contract in 2027 with a one-year, fully guaranteed contract. This amount would represent the fourth-highest cap hit for a running back.
The cost of fifth-year options is based on a player’s position and their achievements, such as Pro Bowl selections. Players with two or more original Pro Bowl selections qualify for the highest level of compensation at their position.
Lions Eye Long-Term Deal for Gibbs
Lions General Manager Brad Holmes has indicated the team’s interest in retaining Gibbs long-term. Speaking at the NFL Combine, Holmes identified Gibbs as a key piece the Lions want to keep. Holmes stated that the Lions view Gibbs, along with other players, as key pieces they want to keep around for a long time.
Holmes has previously used the fifth-year option as a tool when adding an extra year to a new contract extension. The Lions may choose to add the fifth-year option to a new contract extension, rather than making a formal announcement about exercising the option.
How Option Values Are Determined
The NFL determines fifth-year option values based on several factors. These include the player’s position and their accomplishments. Players can reach different compensation levels based on Pro Bowl selections and playtime criteria.
- Multiple Pro Bowl selections (as an original selection) result in the highest compensation.
- One Pro Bowl selection results in a separate compensation level.
- Meeting a playtime criteria also affects the compensation level.
- A baseline tier exists for players who do not meet the above criteria.
The 2026 NFL salary cap has been set at $301.2 million. This figure is a $22 million increase from the previous year.
With the setting of the salary cap, other figures have been solidified, including fifth-year option figures for the 2023 NFL Draft first-round picks. The Lions also have to consider the fifth-year option for linebacker Jack Campbell, which is set at $21,925,000 due to his Pro Bowl selection.