(Photo by Kimberly P. Mitchell/USA TODAY NETWORK)
Detroit Lions running back Jameel Gibbs is recovering from a hamstring injury and is expected to play in the season opener, coach Dan Campbell said Tuesday.
Gibbs, 22, has not practiced since Aug. 12.
Campbell said he expects Gibbs to return to practice next week in preparation for the team's season opener at home against the Los Angeles Rams on Sept. 8.
“He's progressing well,” Campbell told reporters. “He could have done a few more practices, but he's healthy and he's on track to come back and get his foot better. We'll keep an eye on him.”
Gibbs was selected to the Pro Bowl with 1,261 scrimmage yards as a rookie in 2023. The 12th overall pick in the 2023 NFL Draft out of the University of Alabama, Gibbs appeared in 15 games (three starts) last year, rushing 182 times for 945 yards and 10 touchdowns and catching 52 passes for 316 yards and one touchdown.
The Lions are scheduled to play their preseason finale against the Pittsburgh Steelers on Saturday, and Campbell's goal will be to avoid the injuries that have plagued the team this summer.
Campbell expressed optimism Tuesday about other players who are out with injuries.
Pro Bowl tight end Sam LaPorta (hamstring) and starting guard Kevin Zeitler (shoulder) also are close to returning, as are offensive tackle Dan Skipper (ankle) and linebacker Malcolm Rodriguez (arm).
“Hopefully we'll have all of our guys back on Sunday and then practice next week and then practice with the Rams in preparation for the Rams game,” Campbell said.
–Field Level Media
