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Detroit Lions star running back Jahmyr Gibbs is preparing for a bigger workload in 2026 with an unconventional approach.
According to ESPN, Gibbs has spent the offseason training with legendary MMA coach Rafael Cordeiro at Kings MMA in Huntington Beach, California, incorporating combat sports into his routine as he transitions into Detroit’s lead back.
The move comes after longtime backfield partner David Montgomery was traded to the Houston Texans, leaving Gibbs poised to become the focal point of the Lions’ rushing attack.
“He’s going to be our bell cow now,” Lions head coach Dan Campbell said. “We’re going to hang our hat on him quite a bit.”
Gibbs Embracing Life Without David Montgomery
Gibbs admitted it initially felt strange returning to the team without Montgomery alongside him.
“It’s not weird anymore. It was weird when we first got back,” Gibbs said. “I talk to him every day.”
Although Detroit added Isiah Pacheco in free agency, Gibbs enters the season as the clear No. 1 option.
Over the past three seasons, Gibbs has amassed 5,000 scrimmage yards and has become one of only three players to reach that mark, joining Bijan Robinson and Derrick Henry.
In six career games without Montgomery, Gibbs has averaged 147 scrimmage yards, 24.3 touches and scored eight touchdowns.
MMA Training Provides a Different Challenge
Gibbs began working with Cordeiro in March and has completed more than 20 hour-long sessions.
The renowned coach has trained some of the biggest names in combat sports, including Fabricio Werdum, Wanderlei Silva and Cris Cyborg.
According to Gibbs, the sessions have improved his body control, conditioning and hand usage.
“It helps with body control. Your base and all that and faster hands,” Gibbs said. “I would say with blocking, I get my hands up before they hit me.”
He added that the nonstop nature of MMA workouts has enhanced his endurance.
“I feel like my body’s gotten in better shape. Physically it looks better. And conditioning-wise, that conditioning is way different from here because you use nonstop movement in every muscle of your body.”
Rafael Cordeiro Sees Traits of Jon Jones
Cordeiro has been impressed by Gibbs’ athleticism and willingness to embrace the sport.
The longtime coach even compared Gibbs’ movement and physical gifts to those of former UFC champion Jon Jones.
“He shows zero fear. Zero hesitation,” Cordeiro said. “Most of the times when he exchanges with my fighters, he would look in their eyes. Deep, deep, deep in their souls and this is the most important thing for a fighter.”
Lions running backs coach Tashard Choice believes the benefits extend well beyond conditioning.
“When you do MMA training, boxing is all about hand placement and hand-eye coordination,” Choice said. “Balance, putting the weight on the balls of your feet, the same way you do it when you’re in pass protection.”
With Detroit expected to lean heavily on Gibbs in 2026, the Pro Bowl back is using every tool available to prepare for what could be the biggest season of his career.
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