When you have one of the best running backs in the NFL, like the Detroit Lions do with Jahmyr Gibbs, your running back room already becomes one of your strengths. When you can add a solid No. 2 to help your No. 1, the room becomes even stronger.
For the Lions, they may not have Sonic and Knuckles anymore, after the Lions traded David Montgomery to the Houston Texans, but they did sign a veteran backup that can be the Robin to Gibbs’ Batman in former Kansas City Chiefs back Isiah Pacheco.
This new duo recently clocked in at No. 2 on CBS Sports’ top running back duos in the NFL, behind only the Atlanta Falcons’ pairing of Bijan Robinson and Brian Robinson Jr.
Here’s what CBS’ Jared Dubin wrote about the Lions’ one-two punch.
This isn’t exactly the most balanced duo considering Pacheco ‘s ineffectiveness since his 2024 leg injury, but Gibbs is just that good. If he’s not the best back in the league, it’s only because a guy in the No. 1 pairing on our list also exists. Gibbs has topped 5.0 yards per carry in each of his three NFL seasons, racking up 49 total touchdowns along the way.
He finally took over the true lead role in the backfield last season and fully exploded as a receiver, picking up more catches (77) than he had targets in either of his first two years in the NFL. Dan Campbell has already alluded to even more work for Gibbs this season, so all the Lions need is for Pacheco to do some short-yardage work and keep the chains moving when he gives the superstar a break. – Jared Dubin, CBS
Make no mistake about it, this ranking is heavily based upon the talent of Gibbs, who will be taken with the No. 1 pick in many fantasy football drafts over the next few weeks. It’s almost a matter of whatever your taste is or your preference between Gibbs and Robinson.
Both backs are elite and worthy of occupying the top two spots of any running back or fantasy ranking. With all due respect to Pacheco and Robinson, both of whom have had solid, productive careers, this is all about the stars at the top. Even the No. 3 pair on this list falls under the same category, that being the Baltimore Ravens with Derrick Henry and Justice Hill.
However you slice it, Gibbs is that good. Period.
For more Lions coverage, follow us on X, @TheLionsWire, and give our Facebook page a like. Follow Billy Riccette on X, @Billy_Riccette
This article originally appeared on Lions Wire: CBS names Detroit Lions’ RBs second-best duo in NFL
Reporting by Billy Riccette, Lions Wire / Lions Wire
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
By Billy Riccette, Lions Wire | USA TODAY Network
