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Dalton High School recently honored NFL running back Jahmyr Gibbs by retiring his No. 1 jersey. The ceremony took place during halftime of Dalton’s game against Trion, marking a significant milestone in Gibbs' career and his lasting impact on the community.
Gibbs expressed his gratitude to News 12’s Brian Armstrong, saying:
“Something I’ve always wanted to do. Pretty sure every athlete’s always wanted that, but for it to actually happen and everybody be on board with it, you know, it’s truly special.”
The moment became even more memorable when Gibbs saw his jersey revealed by two other Dalton players with retired numbers.
Dalton Athletic Director Ryan Richards noted the significance of the honor during the school's 100th year of football:
“Celebrating 100 years of Dalton football this fall, and he’ll be the fourth jersey retired. So, it’s a really tight fraternity,"
Gibbs acknowledged the tribute:
“Tribute to me and what I’ve, you know, what I’ve done here, all the work I put in here. So, it’s going to be special,” Gibbs said.
Gibbs, a 2020 graduate, had a tremendous high school career. He was a two-time Dalton Daily Citizen All-Area Player of the Year and rushed for 2,554 yards and 40 touchdowns in his senior year.
His high school success saw him become a four-star recruit and eventually signing with Georgia Tech. After two seasons, he transferred to Alabama, where he continued to excel.
In 2022 at Alabama, Jahmyr Gibbs amassed 926 rushing yards, seven rushing touchdowns, 444 receiving yards, and three receiving scores, capturing the attention of NFL scouts.
He was selected 12th overall by the Detroit Lions in the 2023 NFL Draft, becoming the highest-drafted player ever from Whitfield County and the first NFL draftee from the county in 40 years.
Lions GM expects Jahmyr Gibbs to expand role after his rookie season
During his freshman season with Detroit, Jahmyr Gibbs ran for 945 yards and scored 10 touchdowns. Furthermore, he added 316 receiving yards and one receiving touchdown.
He played in the NFC Conference Championship game, was chosen for the Pro Bowl, and was included in the Pro Football Writers Association All-Rookie Team.
General Manager Brad Holmes anticipates Gibbs taking on more responsibility, acknowledging his growth and potential impact.
Holmes discussed Gibbs' progression on "The Rich Eisen Show," noting:
“I definitely would expect him to see more of a load."
Reflecting on Jahmyr Gibbs' rookie season, Holmes observed his adjustment to the pace of the NFL game:
“He’s still trying to get the feel of the game... But once he got that sweet spot... you kind of saw it a little bit in the Ravens game... definitely started seeing some glimpses."
Gibbs's breakout game came against the Las Vegas Raiders, as he dashed for 152 yards and a touchdown in 26 carries and caught five passes for 37 yards. This splendid play saw him placed on the All-Rookie Team of the PFWA.
In the postseason, Jahmyr Gibbs further distinguished himself as the eighth rookie in NFL history with at least 144 rushing yards and three rushing touchdowns, alongside 11 or more receptions.
