For Gibbs specifically, Graziano envisions a four-year, $80 million contract, averaging around $20 million annually and $30 million guaranteed at signing, highlighting the challenge of paying top dollar to a dynamic but still relatively young running back group.
Sam LaPorta is projected at four years for about $68 million, with an average annual value near $17 million and $24 million guaranteed at signing, reflecting the value of a top tight end on Detroit’s offense.
Brian Branch’s projected extension is about three years for $66 million, with $28 million guaranteed, though the Lions are also navigating Branch’s recovery from a torn Achilles and the team’s long-term defensive plans.
Jack Campbell’s status, meanwhile, remains the most complex. Graziano suggests the franchise tag is least likely to be used on Campbell, as linebackers collectively would push the tag past $27 million guaranteed in 2028, making it a less attractive leverage option for the Lions.
The report notes Detroit could still leverage the franchise tag on Branch or LaPorta due to the lower value of those tag designations, using it as a negotiation tool rather than a preferred path. To keep all four players, Detroit would need a negotiating structure with low at-signing guarantees and viable option bonuses, following a pattern similar to Aidan Hutchinson’s contract.
