Jahmyr Gibbs has already established himself as one of the NFL’s most explosive running backs. Now, as he prepares for what could be his largest workload yet with the Detroit Lions, he’s turning to an unconventional training method to gain an edge.
According to ESPN, Gibbs has spent part of his offseason training at Kings MMA Gym in California under renowned MMA coach Rafael Cordeiro. The goal is simple: prepare his body and mind for the increased demands that could come with being Detroit’s featured running back in 2026.
With David Montgomery now in Houston following an offseason trade, Gibbs is expected to carry an even bigger share of the offensive load alongside newcomer Isiah Pacheco.
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MMA Training Taking Conditioning to Another Level
Gibbs told ESPN that the workouts have challenged him in ways traditional football training cannot.
“I feel like my body’s gotten in better shape, like physically it looks better,” Gibbs said. “And conditioning-wise, that conditioning is way different from here because you use nonstop movement in every muscle of your body.”
The Lions star explained that MMA training requires constant activity and engages muscles that are not always emphasized during football workouts.
“But there (in MMA), it’s just constant shoulders, knees, elbows, you go to the ground and all that so out here I barely get tired.”
Lions Coaches See Benefits Beyond Conditioning
Running backs coach Tashard Choice believes the benefits extend far beyond endurance.
According to Choice, MMA training helps develop hand-eye coordination, balance, body control, and footwork, all critical skills for a running back.
“When you do MMA training, a lot of times most people don’t understand, boxing, when you’re punching it’s all about hand placement and hand-eye coordination,” Choice explained.
Choice also pointed to the mental side of the training.
“The mental aspect of it is always putting yourself in a situation where you’re training in April but you see January, you see February.”
That mindset is particularly important for a player expected to be a centerpiece of a team with Super Bowl aspirations.
Bigger Expectations in 2026
Gibbs enters his fourth NFL season after already compiling 3,580 rushing yards during his first three years in Detroit. His game-breaking speed and ability to score from anywhere on the field have made him one of the league’s most dangerous offensive weapons.
If the Lions are going to make another deep postseason run, Gibbs will likely play a major role.
Based on his offseason commitment, he’s doing everything possible to be ready.