Even after fielding a 1,000-yard rookie running back in 2022, the Atlanta Falcons felt the need to double-dip at the position by drafting RB Bijan Robinson in the first round of the 2023 NFL draft.
While nobody doubts the former Texas star’s ability, Atlanta’s running back room is a bit crowded with Robinson, Tyler Allgeier and Cordarelle Patterson all fighting for touches. So how can the rookie stand out in such a deep backfield?
Robinson told Atlanta’s 92.9 F.M. “The Game” radio station that his versatility — and pass-catching ability in particular — will help him earn more reps this season.
“Every single day I’m working on it, trying to get better at that,” Robinson said of his pass-catching ability. “Now that I am lined up at the receiver position, I got to start watching different receivers around the league — [Cooper] Kupp, Davante Adams. I’m trying to watch the best players at that position so I can maximize myself and help the team the best way I can.”
#Falcons rookie Bijan Robinson joined @DukesandBell929 to share how he plans to maximize his game by not only becoming an elite ball carrier, but also an elite pass catcher.#dirtybirds pic.twitter.com/DEOkXV77Bc
— 92.9 The Game (@929TheGame) July 31, 2023
While at Texas, Robinson totaled 159 receiving yards in 2020, 293 in 2021, and 314 last season. Additionally, Bijan took 8.2 percent of receiving snaps (59) from out wide, which is nearly double the percentage of receiving snaps he saw in the slot (31) during his three-year career at Texas.
Robinson went viral during the first week of training camp after making a spectacular catch in a one-on-one drill. The future looks bright for Atlanta’s first-round selection.
#Falcons Bijan Robinson vs Troy Andersen: Round 2. Bijan with the spectacular play. pic.twitter.com/0bwPCipWsZ
— Kevin Knight (@FalcoholicKevin) July 28, 2023