The early returns on drafting Bijan Robinson 8th overall seem to be positive because the Falcons’ newest star is consistently turning heads at training camp,
Most recently, it was one of the best players in the league singing his praises. Chris Lindstrom raved to Dan Graziano and Jeremy Fowler of ESPN about the rookie running back.
“You see at least one or two ridiculous plays every day,” Chris Lindstrom said. “And then you go back to the film and they are even more impressive. You don’t have full appreciation for them in the moment.”
Over the weekend, the player described best as an offensive weapon caught a screen pass, decelerating as defenders flew by him. He also showed off some impressive footwork on the sideline while catching a pass, according to Graziano and Fowler.
Though we don’t have a video of it, we do have some other highlight reel plays from Robinson via Daniel Flick of Sports Illustrated.
Bijan Robinson vs Mike Hughes. Yes, he can still make catches against CBs. Also, good coverage here from Hughes. pic.twitter.com/2HE0AsUtNm
— Daniel Flick (@ByDanielFlick) August 2, 2023
Bijan Robinson with a filthy rep on Kaden Elliss early in 1s pic.twitter.com/XjFrdMzmYC
— Daniel Flick (@ByDanielFlick) July 31, 2023
Everywhere Robinson goes, he stuns people. Most recently, it’s in Miami, where the Falcons and Dolphins are amid joint practices leading up to their preseason contest on Friday. Dolphins safety Brandon Jones had some praise to throw his fellow Texas Longhorn’s way.
“Bijan is Bijan. That boy can do it all, literally do it all,” Jones said. “He’s good with that little first step, that little dead leg. That dude is a monster.”
Bijan Robinson’s career in Atlanta will be highly scrutinized. That comes with the territory of being a top 10 pick, and it’s only exacerbated when it’s a running back. The fact that the Falcons also feature Tyler Allgeier and Cordarrelle Patterson also doesn’t help.
The club was ridiculed for the selection, but Arthur Smith’s ability to utilize Robinson’s versatile skill set could calm those takes. The Falcons offense has been two different versions since Smith took over.
2021 was pass heavy with Matt Ryan under center then the opposite in 2022 with Marcus Mariota as signal caller, among the most run heavy offenses in football.
Expect a completely different version in 2023, something in the middle, which should give Robinson the opportunity to contribute in both the pass and run game, maximizing his potential touches.
Falcons fans can expect to see these highlight reel plays regularly when the season comes.
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Photographer: Jeff Robinson/Icon Sportswire
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