INDIANAPOLIS — Georgia Tech always will be an integral part of Jahmyr Gibbs’ ascension.
Gibbs, a speedy running back from Dalton, was considered somewhat of a hidden gem at Tech before transferring to Alabama for his junior season. His two seasons at Tech came during the lackluster Geoff Collins era, and his production – 1,206 rushing yards and 768 receiving yards in 19 games – went largely unnoticed as the team struggled.
Buzz began building for Gibbs almost immediately after he announced he was heading to Alabama. He met expectations, rushing for 926 yards and adding another 444 yards on 44 catches. He entered the NFL draft and is expected to be selected in the first two rounds.
During his NFL combine availability Saturday, Gibbs spoke fondly of Tech, especially regarding former running backs coach Tashard Choice, who Gibbs said, “made me who I am today.” A Tech alum, Choice currently coaches running backs at Texas.
Speaking generally on Tech, Gibbs said: “They made me who I am today, too. Without them, I don’t think I’d be the same player. Overcoming all the adversity we had to overcome there and putting in all the hard work to put me where I am today.”
Gibbs and the other running backs will complete on-field drills Sunday at Lucas Oil Stadium. Throughout the week, Gibbs has been meeting with NFL teams, including the Falcons. He’s expected to impress in the 40-yard dash, which should aid his case for being a late first-round pick. Hall of Fame running back LaDainian Tomlinson recently said on NFL Network he thought Gibbs would be a combine standout.
