With the No. 12 overall pick, the Detroit Lions shocked fans by selecting Alabama running back Jahmyr Gibbs.
This was unexpected as Detroit recently signed David Montgomery to a three-year deal, and D’Andre Swift is coming off a strong season.
So where will the rookie sit on the depth chart?
Gibbs was a three-down back for Alabama and his 4.36 speed is quicker than any of the five running backs rostered by the Lions.
Knowing how Detroit has operated with its rookies in recent years, Gibbs will probably be behind Swift and Montgomery to begin the season.
Gibbs’ skillset is very similar to Swift’s; he’s an agile back who excels at outside runs and as a receiver. It’s likely that he will hold a reserve role in Detroit for his rookie year and develop behind Swift and Montgomery,
Remember that most teams draft for future need, and that’s what this pick is. Swift will be entering the final year of his rookie deal and Gibbs was likely drafted as heir apparent to Swift.
Detroit did make good use of backups Craig Reynolds and Justin Jackson last season in limited roles, so there is a chance that Gibbs gets some light reps throughout the season.
