The Falcons received a ton of flack when they made Bijan Robinson the highest-drafted running back since the Giants took Saquon Barkley 2nd overall in 2018.
Running back is considered a luxury pick, given the positional value, prompting most media pundits to bash Atlanta’s regime. How could a team so desperate for an improved defense consider drafting a running back in the top 10? Well, there are several answers to this question.
Firstly, it’s amusing to see talking heads analyze this pick in a vacuum without context. The Falcons spent a majority of their cap space this offseason on defenders, adding difference-makers on all three levels.
Secondly, Bijan Robinson isn’t just a running back; he’s an offensive weapon that can beat defenses in a variety of ways. He is a big play waiting to happen, responsible for 45 plays of 20+ yard gains in his career at Texas, including eight carries of 50+ yards.
14 of those 45 explosive plays were through the air. Robinson can run the entire running back route tree but also effectively work out of the slot. He’s better described as an offensive weapon than a running back. And he’s refining that receiving ability with one of the best in the business — Ja’Marr Chase.
Bijan Robinson has reportedly spent the past several days training with Ja’Marr Chase.
Robinson and Chase have spent time refining routes and improving footwork.
These training sessions are led by “goldfeet” who has also worked with the likes of Odell Beckham, Jaylen Waddle,… pic.twitter.com/VL9GWAZJzL
— NFL Rookie Watch (@NFLRookieWatxh) May 4, 2023
Expect Arthur Smith’s offense to use Bijan Robinson in a variety of ways — out of the backfield, in the slot, in motion, on the boundary, etc.
There aren’t many things this guy can’t do on a football field.
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