Jahmyr Gibbs Turns to MMA Training Ahead of Expanded Role With Lions

The Detroit Lions are entering a new phase in their backfield after moving on from veteran running back David Montgomery this offseason. With Montgomery now playing elsewhere, the responsibility of leading the rushing attack will fall more heavily on Jahmyr Gibbs.

Gibbs has already established himself as one of the NFL’s most explosive young players, but the 2026 season will bring a different challenge. For the first time in his professional career, he will not share the workload with Montgomery, meaning the Lions will rely on him in a much larger role.

To prepare for that increased responsibility, Gibbs has explored an unconventional training method. The young running back has incorporated mixed martial arts workouts into his offseason routine, believing the discipline helps improve several areas that directly translate to football.

The training is designed to enhance Gibbs’ balance, strength, conditioning, and physical awareness. As Detroit expects him to become the centerpiece of its offense, Gibbs believes MMA preparation can help him handle the demands of being a full-time featured running back.

1. New Role Brings Bigger Expectations

The Lions made a significant change to their running back room by trading Montgomery to the Houston Texans. In his place, Detroit added former Kansas City Chiefs running back Isiah Pacheco, who is expected to provide depth and complement Gibbs in the backfield. However, the team has made it clear that Gibbs will be the primary option. Head coach Dan Campbell acknowledged that the third-year running back is ready to take on a larger workload and become the player Detroit builds around offensively. Campbell explained that Gibbs had already started moving toward a bigger role during the previous season, but the upcoming campaign will represent a major step forward. The coaching staff plans to emphasize the strengths that make Gibbs such a dangerous weapon. That means more opportunities as a runner and receiver. Gibbs’ ability to create explosive plays in space has been one of his biggest advantages, and the Lions believe increasing his touches can make the offense even more difficult for opponents to defend.

2. MMA Adds New Dimension

Gibbs’ decision to train in MMA reflects his desire to improve beyond traditional football preparation. He believes the sport has helped him develop skills that can directly impact his performance on Sundays. One of the biggest benefits he highlighted is improved body control. MMA requires athletes to maintain balance, react quickly, and stay coordinated during constant movement, all qualities that are valuable for an NFL running back. Gibbs also believes the training has improved his hand speed and blocking ability. As defenses become more aggressive in trying to stop him, the ability to protect himself and create leverage in physical situations becomes increasingly important. The conditioning aspect may be the biggest advantage. Unlike football, where players often have breaks between plays, MMA requires continuous movement and endurance. Gibbs believes that level of preparation will allow him to stay fresh during long games and heavy workloads.

3. Superstar Potential In Detroit

Since entering the NFL in 2023, Gibbs has quickly developed into one of the league’s most exciting young offensive players. His speed, vision, and versatility have made him a major part of Detroit’s success. Last season, Gibbs delivered another impressive campaign by appearing in all 17 games. He recorded 1,233 rushing yards, 616 receiving yards, and 18 total touchdowns, showing his ability to impact the game in multiple ways. His production has already placed him among the NFL’s most dangerous dual-threat running backs. With Montgomery no longer sharing carries, Gibbs now has the opportunity to showcase whether he can handle a true feature-back role. The Lions believe Gibbs has the talent to become one of the faces of their offense. If his MMA-inspired preparation translates into improved durability, physicality, and consistency, the 2026 season could become the defining year of his young career.