There was a lot of debate over how the Atlanta Falcons handled their first-round pick in the 2023 NFL Draft. At No. 8, they selected Texas running back Bijan Robinson. It was a move some believed that the Falcons would make, but was it the right one?
Running back has become a devalued position in the NFL in recent years. Using a first-round pick, especially a top-8 selection, has only been done four times previously before Atlanta did it with Robinson since 2010. The last time it occurred was in 2018 when the New York Giants selected Saquon Barkley second overall out of Penn State.
Just like the reaction when Barkley was selected, people love Robinson as a player. But, they don’t love the pick. Atlanta had far more pressing needs than a running back, but some evaluators believe Robinson is the best prospect in this year’s draft class.
Oddly enough, the pro comparison that Robinson received was Barkley. They have more similarities than just having their draft position questioned, as Robinson has the best running back in the league upside.
There are already some general managers and coaches that believe Robinson could be ticketed for Canton. That is a very bold thing to say hours after he heard his name called in the draft, but the skill set is certainly there.
The former Longhorn is a true three-down back with explosive athleticism and power. His pre-draft grade came out at an All-Pro level, so the Falcons are getting a player with some serious talent.
There are some concerns about the workload that he had at Texas the last two seasons, averaging 249 offensive touches per season. But, if that is the biggest concern you have about a player heading into the draft, they are about as safe of a prospect as you will find.
Robinson made the most of those touches as he averaged 6.3 yards per carry in his collegiate career. He ran for 3,410 yards and 33 touchdowns, adding 60 receptions for 805 yards and eight more scores.
Adept as a pass blocker, Robinson has a true work-horse and three-down upside. Given how successful the Falcons were at running the ball last season, Robinson should be able to hit the ground running and produce right from Day 1.