Jahmyr Gibbs Misses Top Spot in ESPN 2026 RB Rankings

ESPN Survey Places Gibbs Second Behind Robinson

The annual ESPN poll of more than 70 NFL executives, coaches, and scouts left Detroit’s star running back just off the top rung for the 2026 class. Gibbs landed in the No. 2 spot, nudged forward by Bijan Robinson, after one of the closest votes the survey has seen. Several voters even tabbed Gibbs as their top choice, underscoring how tightly contested the race for the elite backfield spot truly is.

Why Vot­ers Are High on Gibbs’ Skills

An offensive coordinator praised Gibbs for his rare vision and his ability to control his pace before exploding once he finds space. The same coach highlighted Gibbs as one of the league’s best receiving backs, noting his dangerous versatility in every situation. His blend of speed, vision, and sure‑handedness makes him a threat on both the ground and in the passing game.

Gibbs’ Numbers Echo the Hype

Last season Gibbs posted 18 touchdowns, the second‑most in Detroit Lions history and just one shy of his own 20‑TD campaign the year before. Across his first three NFL seasons he compiled 39 rushing scores despite sharing carries with teammates for most of that time. An NFC executive called the total remarkable, especially given that Gibbs was not a full‑time workhorse.

Potential for More Touches in 2026

David Montgomery’s move to Houston opens a larger role for Gibbs, who has averaged about 225 carries per season since breaking in. ESPN’s analysts noted he could approach the 300‑carry mark for the first time if he stays healthy. The Lions are already viewing the upcoming year as a chance to let Gibbs become the focal point of their offense.

Gibbs vs. Robinson: A Tight Comparison

Some evaluators still see Robinson as the stronger inside runner, but Gibbs has proven he can dominate between the tackles while retaining the burst that makes him a home‑run threat. That dual capability helped Gibbs become the closest challenger to the top spot in this year’s rankings. The margin between the two backs is thin, leaving plenty of room for debate among fans and analysts.

What This Means for Detroit’s Future

Gibbs’ second‑place finish signals rising confidence in his upside, especially with a heavier workload on the horizon. If he can stay healthy and build on his recent TD totals, the Lions could have one of the league’s premier backfields by season’s end. The next 12 months will be crucial in determining whether Gibbs can finally claim the No. 1 ranking he nearly earned this year.