Star RBs Robinson, Gibbs appear to be hold-ins while seeking deals

Running backs Bijan Robinson of the Atlanta Falcons and Jahmyr Gibbs of the Detroit Lions did not participate Wednesday in the first day of training camp for their respective teams while seeking contract extensions, according to ESPN's reporting. Both players have had conversations with their teams this offseason about long-term contracts and are expected to reset the running back market.

Saquon Barkley of the Philadelphia Eagles currently holds the NFL's highest-paid running back contract at an average annual value of $20.6 million. Robinson and Gibbs are seeking deals that surpass that figure. Both teams exercised the fifth-year options on their respective rookie contracts this year, placing both players under contract through the 2027 season.

Robinson, a Pro Bowl selection in each of the past two seasons, was a first-team All-Pro last season when he led the NFL in rushing yards with 1,478. He also led the league in scrimmage yards with 2,298, a Falcons franchise record. Over his first three seasons, Robinson has recorded 5,648 all-purpose yards and 34 total touchdowns. The Falcons selected him No. 8 overall in the 2023 draft.

Gibbs has been selected to the Pro Bowl in each of his first three seasons and is viewed as one of the league's most electrifying players, known for his speed and dual-threat ability as both a runner and receiver. In his first three seasons, Gibbs has accumulated 5,029 yards from scrimmage and 49 total touchdowns. The Lions selected Gibbs No. 12 overall in the 2023 draft.

Lions coach Dan Campbell addressed Gibbs' status, stating per ESPN, "It'll come as it comes. I think that's the best way to say it. This is both sides working through something and we'll take it as it comes, but that's where it is."

The Falcons' official stance on Robinson's hold-out and the specific figures either player is seeking were not disclosed in available reporting.