Detroit Lions RB Jahmyr Gibbs trains MMA to boost NFL performance

Detroit Lions running back Jahmyr Gibbs is undertaking mixed‑martial‑arts training with renowned MMA coach Rafael Cordeiro in California. Gibbs, who logged 1,223 rushing yards and 13 touchdowns in the 2025 season, will assume the primary back role in 2026 after the departure of David Montgomery. He has completed more than 20 one‑hour sessions focused on body control, hand‑eye coordination, and overall conditioning.

Gibbs told ESPN, “It helps with body control… I feel like my body’s gotten in better shape.” Cordeiro added, “He now has the vision that the fighters have inside the Octagon.” The coach, known for working with champions such as Mike Tyson and Anderson Silva, aims to improve Gibbs’s vision and strength, which could make him a tougher challenge for NFL defenses.