Gibbs Favored for NFL Offensive Player of the Year Amid Contract Talks
DraftKings odds place the 24-year-old as the clear favourite for the 2026 award, with increased workload expected following the departure of David Montgomery.
Detroit Lions running back Jahmyr Gibbs has emerged as the leading favourite to claim the 2026 NFL Offensive Player of the Year award, according to updated market trends released by DraftKings. The 24-year-old tailback currently sits at +700 odds, leading all players in both betting tickets and handle for the prestigious honour. Atlanta Falcons running back Bijan Robinson follows as the second favourite at +850 odds.
Gibbs’ prominence in the betting markets coincides with his eligibility for a contract extension on his rookie deal, a move that could see him become the highest-paid running back in league history. The Lions selected Gibbs with a first-round pick in 2023, and he is now seeking to capitalise on a previous season where he recorded 1,223 rushing yards and 13 touchdowns. His 49 career touchdowns through his first three seasons stand as an NFL record for a player at that stage of their career.
The Lions’ offensive structure has shifted significantly following the trade of David Montgomery to the Houston Texans in March. Head coach Dan Campbell indicated that the team would rely heavily on Gibbs, describing him as the new “bell cow.” During their time together, Gibbs and Montgomery scored a touchdown in 15 games, a record for any duo in NFL history, with Detroit remaining undefeated in those contests.
Statistical projections suggest a substantial increase in Gibbs’ workload. While he accounted for 67% of offensive snaps in 2026, beat writers anticipate that figure could rise to approximately 75% this season. The SportsLine Projection Model forecasts Gibbs for 15.5 carries, 75 rushing yards, and one touchdown in the season opener against the New Orleans Saints, where Detroit is a seven-point home favourite.
Gibbs is also a co-leader at +550 odds for most rushing touchdowns, tied with Baltimore Ravens’ Derrick Henry. Specific prop odds for the Lions running back include an over/under of 1199.5 rushing yards and 12.5 rushing scores. These figures reflect a player who has consistently ranked among the league’s most productive, recording 18 total touchdowns last season, which was second in the NFL.
