The Detroit Lions selected Jahmyr Gibbs in the first round of the 2023 NFL Draft, and he’s made a name for himself as a top running back in the NFL.
However, Gibbs’ journey to the league wasn’t easy. The support of both his biological and adoptive families helped him rise to stardom.
The positive environment his biological and adoptive families provided allowed Gibbs to thrive. After earning first-team All-State honors during high school, he continued to shine at Georgia Tech and Alabama. His talent caught the attention of the Lions, and the rest is history.
However, Gibbs’ personal story is as inspiring as his performances on the field, which has been shaped by the love and guidance of his parents, Greg and Dusty Ross.
Who Are Jahmyr Gibbs’ Mom and Dad?
Gibbs was born to Neka Willis, his biological mother. After facing several early-life struggles, including time spent in a shelter with his grandmother, Angela Willis, Gibbs had his opportunity to thank the angels.
Angela raised the future RB until he was 13. During his time at the shelter, Gibbs met Dusty Ross, who was volunteering there at the moment.
Eventually, Dusty and her husband, Greg Ross, welcomed Gibbs into their home in 2017.
The Ross family officially adopted him, and from then on, they played a major role in Gibbs’ development as a person and an athlete.
His grandmother, Angela, remains a consistent presence in his life, continuing to support him as he chases his dreams.
Gibbs’ Family
Gibbs became part of a larger family when Greg and Dusty adopted him. Greg and Dusty are proud parents of four sons — Max, John, Ahmaad Tanner, and Jahmyr. Ahmaad Tanner also played football for Austin Peay State University.
Inspired by his family’s love and encouragement, Gibbs flourished in the sport, first shining in high school before making his mark in college.
Gibbs’ biological mother has remained in the background of his public life. However, she, too, contributed to his journey.
His adoptive parents, Dusty and Greg Ross, provided the stable, nurturing environment he needed to grow, and Gibbs’ grandmother has also been a strong influence. Although she no longer raises him, she continues to offer guidance.
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Dusty, in particular, is active on social media, frequently expressing her pride and support for Gibbs and his brothers.
Back in 2023, Georgia Tech running backs coach Tashard Choice revealed he wanted to make Gibbs one of the leading voices in the team’s locker room, but he refused, to which Ross said: “He just naturally loves football. He’s just … a little more reserved and a little quieter.”
On the other hand, Gibbs’ adoptive mother was in disbelief when Choice told the family about Gibbs’ potential.
She said: “You’re thinking, is this just somebody else blowing smoke up our butt like everybody else? But we were big football fans and knew how good (Gibbs) was. Here was a coach who played at the highest level, telling us what we’d been seeing. I’ll remember that call as long as I live.”
Gibbs’ story is one of perseverance. Now, with his sights set on NFL greatness, Gibbs continues to carry his family’s influence with him every step of the way.