Jahmyr Gibbs Nears NFL Touchdown Record Set by Barry Sanders at Age 23

Lions running back Jahmyr Gibbs is only 23 years old, and after his three-touchdown game on Sunday, he has 41 touchdowns in his NFL career

Detroit Lions' young running back Jahmyr Gibbs is rapidly approaching a historic milestone previously set by Hall of Famer Barry Sanders. With 41 career touchdowns before turning 24, Gibbs is on the cusp of breaking Sanders’ record for the most touchdowns scored by a player under 24 in NFL history. The article delves into Gibbs’ promising career, his inspiration from Sanders, and the lasting legacy of Sanders within the Lions organization.

• Jahmyr Gibbs has scored 41 touchdowns in his NFL career at only 23 years old, nearing Barry Sanders’ record of 47 touchdowns before age 24.
• Gibbs is the NFL player with the most touchdowns since his league entry in 2023 and is tied to break into the top ranks alongside legends like Jim Brown, Randy Moss, and Emmitt Smith.
• Barry Sanders remains a significant figure for Gibbs and teammate David Montgomery, offering mentorship and symbolizing the high standards of excellence at the Lions.
• Sanders survived a heart attack in June 2024 but remains actively involved with the Lions as a team ambassador, inspiring the current roster.
• Gibbs and Montgomery are both on pace to exceed 1,000 rushing yards this season, promising a powerful backfield continuing the legacy set by Sanders.

Jahmyr Gibbs on the verge of NFL history

At just 23, Jahmyr Gibbs has emerged as one of the NFL’s most exciting running backs. After a standout three-touchdown performance in a recent Sunday game, he has accumulated 41 touchdowns throughout his young career, a tally that places him within striking distance of Barry Sanders’ record of 47 touchdowns before turning 24. Gibbs has until his birthday in March to surpass this landmark, and his current momentum suggests he is well-positioned to do so.

Gibbs’ success is remarkable not only within the Lions franchise but also across the league. Since entering the NFL in 2023, no player has scored more touchdowns than Gibbs. With a touchdown against the Eagles in Week 2, he would tie Jim Brown for fourth place all-time in touchdowns before age 24, behind only Randy Moss and Emmitt Smith, who each had 43.

The Barry Sanders connection: inspiration and mentorship

Barry Sanders, whose electrifying play style defined an era of Lions football, remains a monumental figure in Detroit. The Lions honored Sanders with a bronze statue outside Ford Field in September 2023 and premiered a documentary celebrating his career in November 2023. Sanders, inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2004, transitioned into a team ambassador role, deepening his bond with current players.

Gibbs' relationship with Sanders began in earnest when Gibbs was drafted in 2023. Sanders personally greeted Gibbs at Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport and even shared a car ride to practice, during which they exchanged stories and formed a lasting friendship. Sanders’ encouragement—telling Gibbs simply to "Go kill ’em"—resonates with the young running back, who describes himself as self-motivated but appreciative of Sanders’ support.

Teammate David Montgomery, who joined the Lions in the same season, has also been deeply influenced by Sanders’ presence and mentorship. Montgomery emphasizes that Sanders’ legacy instills a sense of responsibility and authority in their play, motivating the duo to honor the standards set by one of football’s all-time greats.

Overcoming adversity: Barry Sanders’ health scare and continued influence

In June 2024, Barry Sanders faced a major health challenge when he suffered a heart attack. Despite initial symptoms being mistaken for heartburn, Sanders sought emergency care and underwent treatment, spending three days hospitalized. High LDL cholesterol was identified as a key risk factor. Supported by his family, Sanders embraced a treatment plan focused on exercise, diet, and medication to facilitate his recovery.

Sanders’ openness about his experience has extended beyond personal health, as he participates in documentaries and panels to raise awareness about cardiovascular health. His son Barry J. Sanders plays an important role in supporting his father’s wellness routines, illustrating a dynamic of care and accountability within the family.

Within the Lions organization, the news of Sanders’ heart attack was met with concern but also faith in his resilient spirit. Current players and coaches alike express admiration for Sanders, not only as a player but for his humility and dedication to the team.

The dynamic backfield: Gibbs and Montgomery driving the Lions’ rushing attack

Together, Gibbs and Montgomery have revitalized the Lions’ run game. The 2023 season saw the Lions achieve their highest rushing average (146.4 yards per game) since Barry Sanders’ 1997 tenure. Through Week 7 of the 2024 season, both backs remain on target to surpass 1,000 rushing yards.

Their synergy is historic: Gibbs and Montgomery have scored touchdowns in the same game 14 times as teammates, just one shy of tying a Super Bowl-era record held by Emmitt Smith and Daryl Johnston. Sanders praises Gibbs’ speed, suddenness, and agility, projecting another breakout season for the young running back.

Head coach Dan Campbell’s mid-season play-caller switch has helped better incorporate Gibbs into the offense, correlating with Gibbs' resurgence and increasing productivity.

Comparisons to NFL's great running backs

While cautioning against rushing to emulate legends too early in a career, it's clear Jahmyr Gibbs is already planting his name alongside the greatest running backs. He’s the second Lions player to reach 40 touchdowns in his first three seasons after Barry Sanders.

The article also references notable NFL figures who have achieved remarkable rushing milestones, such as Eric Dickerson (record single-season yards), Adrian Peterson, Jamal Lewis, Derrick Henry, and others who have shaped the legacy and benchmark for modern running backs.

Conclusion

Jahmyr Gibbs is rapidly carving out a legacy that resonates deeply with Detroit Lions' history and the broader NFL community. Guided by the example of Barry Sanders and propelled by his own exceptional talent, Gibbs stands poised to rewrite franchise records and continue Detroit's proud tradition of elite running backs. With strong mentorship, a revitalized offensive strategy, and an inspired mindset, both Gibbs and Montgomery are integral to the Lions’ ambitions moving forward, carrying the torch lit by Sanders for decades past.