In a surprising turn of events, Jahmyr Gibbs emerged as a fantasy football standout last year, ranking as the eighth-best running back in the league. Despite starting the season as the backup to David Montgomery, Gibbs quickly made a name for himself and now heads into his second season looking to build on his success. With Montgomery still in the picture, fantasy football enthusiasts are left wondering what Gibbs has in store for 2024.
The Detroit Lions faced backlash for selecting Gibbs in the first round of last year’s draft, but the criticism only fueled his fire. While his NFL debut got off to a slow start, Gibbs hit his stride after returning from injury in Week 7. The former Alabama standout showcased his ability to consistently average over four yards per carry in 12 out of 16 fantasy football matchups.
Throughout Weeks 7-17, Gibbs proved to be a reliable asset in Dan Campbell’s offense, finding the endzone in all but three games. In the absence of Montgomery due to injury, Gibbs shined by rushing for 220 yards on 37 carries, averaging an impressive 5.95 yards per carry, and scoring a touchdown in each game. His versatility was further highlighted by his contribution in the passing game, as he caught two or more passes in 11 out of 16 games.
Despite speculation that Gibbs could potentially take on a larger role, Campbell has opted to maintain a 50/50 split in carries between Gibbs and Montgomery for the upcoming season. Gibbs is expected to be a key player in passing situations, especially with his ability to excel in open space and create long runs. While Montgomery handles goal line duties, Gibbs looks to continue showcasing his explosiveness and playmaking ability.
As the Lions gear up for the 2024 season, Gibbs remains a vital part of their offensive strategy. With targets likely to be shared amongst Amon-Ra St. Brown and Sam LaPorta, Gibbs will play a crucial role in providing another passing option for quarterback Jared Goff on crucial downs. While his lack of involvement in goal line scenarios may be a concern, Gibbs’ knack for producing big plays and explosive runs adds a dynamic element to the Lions’ backfield.
In the realm of fantasy football, Jahmyr Gibbs continues to be a player to watch closely as he aims to elevate his game in his second year in the league. With Montgomery by his side, Gibbs looks poised to make an even greater impact in 2024. Stay tuned as the dynamic duo of Gibbs and Montgomery keep football fans on the edge of their seats with their on-field exploits.
