Detroit Lions running back Jahmyr Gibb is preparing for the biggest season of his NFL career, and he’s taking an unconventional approach to get ready.
With longtime backfield partner David Montgomery now with the Houston Texans, Gibbs is expected to take on a true feature-back role in Detroit’s offense during the 2026 season. To prepare for the increased workload, the Pro Bowl running back has added mixed martial arts training to his offseason regimen under renowned MMA coach Rafael Cordeiro.
Gibbs admitted it was initially strange returning to the Lions’ offseason program without Montgomery by his side.
“It was weird when we first got back,” Gibbs said during organized team activities. “But now I’m pretty used to it. I talk to him every day.”
The Lions are fully embracing Gibbs as their offensive centerpiece after he emerged as one of the NFL’s most explosive playmakers over the last three seasons. Head coach Dan Campbell recently confirmed the team’s plans to lean heavily on the dynamic running back.
“He’s going to be our bell cow now,” Campbell said. “We’re going to hang our hat on him quite a bit.”
To prepare for that responsibility, Gibbs began training with Cordeiro at Kings MMA in Huntington Beach, California. Since March, he has completed more than 20 hour-long sessions focused on body control, hand speed, balance, defensive techniques, and overall conditioning.
According to Gibbs, the training has already produced noticeable benefits.
“It helps with body control, your base and faster hands,” Gibbs explained. “With blocking, I get my hands up before defenders hit me.”
The Lions star also praised the demanding nature of MMA workouts, noting that the constant movement challenges every muscle group and has significantly improved his endurance.
Cordeiro, who has coached legendary fighters including Fabricio Werdum, Wanderlei Silva, Mauricio “Shogun” Rua, Cris Cyborg, and boxing icon Mike Tyson, has been impressed with Gibbs’ natural athleticism and commitment.
“He shows zero fear and zero hesitation,” Cordeiro said. “He learns very fast and understands everything we teach.”
The veteran MMA coach even compared Gibbs’ physical gifts and movement skills to former UFC champion Jon Jones.
Gibbs enters the 2026 season coming off another productive campaign in which he accounted for 38% of Detroit’s offensive touches and 55% of the team’s rushing attempts. In six career games without Montgomery, he has averaged 147 scrimmage yards, 24.3 touches, and scored eight total touchdowns.
Those numbers suggest the Lions’ offense could reach new heights with Gibbs serving as the unquestioned lead back.
Running backs coach Tashard Choice has emphasized the importance of a fast start this season, and both Gibbs and Cordeiro believe the MMA training will help make that happen.
As Detroit pursues another playoff run, Gibbs’ unique offseason preparation could be one of the biggest storylines to watch heading into the 2026 NFL season.
