Jahmyr Gibbs is one of the most promising young running backs in the NFL. He was selected by the Detroit Lions with the 12th overall pick in the 2023 NFL Draft, after a stellar college career at Georgia Tech and Alabama. But who are jahmyr gibbs parents, and how did they influence his journey to the NFL?
Jahmyr Gibbs’ Early Life and Family Background
Jahmyr Gibbs was born on March 20, 2002, in Dalton, Georgia. His biological parents are Neka Willis and Greg Ross, but he was raised by his grandmother, Angie, who he calls “mother”. His father, Ross, is his adoptive dad, and the two have a close relationship.
Gibbs had a challenging family situation growing up, as his parents were often in and out of his life. However, they have always supported him in his football career since he was a young boy. His grandmother, Angie, was his main source of inspiration and motivation. She taught him to work hard, stay humble, and pursue his dreams.
Jahmyr Gibbs’ High School and College Football Career
Gibbs showed his talent for football long before he entered high school. He started playing at the age of four, and joined a youth league called the Dalton Red Wolves. He played various positions, including quarterback, wide receiver, and defensive back.
When he enrolled at Dalton High School, he focused on playing as a running back. He broke records and won awards for his on-field performance. He rushed for 5,979 yards and 91 touchdowns in his high school career, and was named the Georgia Gatorade Player of the Year in 2019.
Gibbs was recruited by several college programs, but he chose to play for Georgia Tech. He had a phenomenal freshman season in 2020, rushing for 1,024 yards and 11 touchdowns in just seven games. He also caught 24 passes for 303 yards and three touchdowns. He was named the ACC Rookie of the Year and a Freshman All-American.
After his freshman season, Gibbs transferred to Alabama, where he joined a loaded backfield that included Najee Harris and Brian Robinson Jr. He played in nine games for the Crimson Tide in 2021, rushing for 528 yards and six touchdowns. He also had 15 receptions for 172 yards and two touchdowns. He helped Alabama win the national championship with a 31-17 victory over Ohio State.
Jahmyr Gibbs’ NFL Draft and Rookie Season
Gibbs decided to enter the 2023 NFL Draft after his sophomore season at Alabama. He was widely regarded as one of the best running backs in the draft class, along with Travis Etienne and Javonte Williams. He impressed scouts with his speed, agility, vision, and versatility as a runner and receiver.
The Detroit Lions selected Gibbs with the 12th overall pick in the draft, making him the second running back taken after Etienne. The Lions saw Gibbs as a perfect fit for their offense, which needed a dynamic playmaker in the backfield. They also liked his character and work ethic.
Gibbs had an impressive rookie season with the Lions in 2023. He played in all 16 games, starting 10 of them. He rushed for 1,086 yards and nine touchdowns on 212 carries, averaging 5.1 yards per attempt. He also caught 42 passes for 378 yards and four touchdowns. He was named to the Pro Bowl and the All-Rookie Team.
Jahmyr Gibbs’ Future Outlook
Jahmyr Gibbs has established himself as one of the rising stars in the NFL. He has a bright future ahead of him as the lead running back for the Lions. He has also become a role model for many young football players who look up to him.
Jahmyr Gibbs credits his family for his success in football. He says that his parents, grandmother, and sisters have always been there for him through thick and thin. He also says that he plays for them every time he steps on the field.
Jahmyr Gibbs’ parents are proud of their son’s achievements, but they also remind him to stay grounded and grateful. They say that they love him unconditionally, no matter what he does on or off the field.