Falcons Draft Grades: RB Bijan Robinson 'Complete Package'
The Atlanta Falcons made history by selecting Texas running back Bijan Robinson No. 8 overall in the 2023 NFL Draft. Robinson is the first running back drafted in the top 10 since the New York Giants took Saquon Barkley with the No. 2 overall pick in 2018.
Widely-viewed as the draft's best offensive player, Robinson was all smiles to be headed to Atlanta and said he "won't let them down." Another former Longhorns star - Kevin Durant, currently in the midst of a playoff run with the NBA's Phoenix Suns, is also ecstatic about the "star" pick.
Despite all the speculation about the value of the running back position, the team at Sports Illustrated gives the selection an "A" grade.
"The Falcons ignored analytics and took the most dynamic playmaker in the draft to plug into coach Arthur Smith’s offense," SI writes. "Yes, Robinson plays running back, but he’s the complete package as a productive pass catcher, stout blocker and home-run threat in the running game. The Falcons now have a standout offensive trio with Robinson, wide receiver Drake London and tight end Kyle Pitts."
Robinson, an All-American in 2022, finished his career ranked fourth in Longhorns history with 3,405 rushing yards, eighth in all-purpose yards with 4,231, ninth in points scored at 246. His 805 receiving yards ranked third by a running back in program history.
The draft continues Friday with the second and third rounds beginning at 7 p.m. ET. One of the biggest storylines, Kentucky quarterback Will Levis still remains on the board with the Tennessee Titans as the favorites to land the widely-expected to go in the first round.
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