Falcons RB Bijan Robinson Explains Jersey Decision, Used 'Everywhere' at Minicamp
The Atlanta Falcons ended several months of speculation by selecting Texas running back Bijan Robinson at No. 8 overall in the 2023 NFL Draft ... but the speculation returned shortly thereafter, just with a new twist.
As opposed to who the pick would be, conversation turned to which number would be worn - which Robinson answered in considerably quicker fashion.
The 21-year-old Robinson settled on the No. 7, getting it off kicker Younghoe Koo, who became the first to don it since quarterback Michael Vick in 2006.
So, why No. 7 for Robinson? He explained to reporters following his first practice session as a Falcon during Friday's rookie minicamp ...
"It's a biblical number - that's why I chose that most importantly," Robinson said, via 929TheGame's Joe Patrick. "Obviously some legendary players played here with it. When I asked Koo if I could wear it, he was super cool about it. Coaches asked Vick if I could wear it and he was super excited about it."
The No. 7 appears over 700 times in the bible and signifies a sense of fullness or completion in regard to promises. Robinson has long been outspoken about his faith and evidently opted to add a new outlet of expression - the back of his jersey.
As for football, Robinson's first live action on the indoor practice field at Falcons headquarters in Flowery Branch went smoothly, with the consensus All-American and reigning Doak Walker Award winner both taking handoffs and catching passes out of the backfield.
This is merely the introductory phase for Robinson, but it provides yet another glimpse into how coach Arthur Smith plans on deploying the former Tucson, Ariz., native.
Robinson, asked his first impression of working with Smith, went straight to the versatility of his role - and feels the two are in for a productive relationship.
"He uses me everywhere," said Robinson. "From receiver to running back, he lets me use my ability and skillset. Whether it's catching the ball, running routes, obviously running the football, blocking. He told me 'I'm going to coach you hard.'"
From his opening press conference after the draft's first round to now, Smith has been open about the idea of putting Robinson in the slot, something his background and Texas tape shows is quite plausible.
Better yet, Robinson has put significant time into improving as a receiver this offseason. He's currently working out with Cincinnati Bengals All-Pro wideout Ja'Marr Chase, who's taught him ways to run certain routes and read coverage looks, among other things, all the while catching passes and expanding his route tree.
As such, Atlanta's words and Robinson's actions are aligning - and the hope is that it leads to the Falcons' first playoff appearance since 2017.
You can follow Daniel Flick on Twitter @DFlickDraft
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