I think there are several reasons here. He is highly productive and still relatively young. He is a leader on this team. It is basically a bonus for his performance since signing and for setting an example for off-season conditioning (according to DC he showed up to camp in better shape than anyone on the team). It isn't a ton of money, but it continues to send the message to everyone that if you outperform your contract your efforts are recognized and you will be rewarded. It serves to make Detroit an attractive place for free agents. It also ensures that our running back duo will be together for the entirety of Gibbs' rookie contract. He has certainly been way more valuable to the team than the contract he signed two years ago. I love that the front office has turned from a group that used to cause former players to be disgruntled to a group that rewards performance and embraces and values the players.
