The Falcoholic
It wasn’t too long ago that valuing the running back position was scoffed at. Whether it was general managers, analysts, reporters, or fans, the perception of running backs as expendable came about because the best teams in the league were pass-oriented, and the proof of concept in recent Super Bowl winners weren’t being led by a 1,000-yard rusher at the position. It was also evident in contract negotiations across the league where running backs struggled to secure lucrative long-term contracts. That’s what made the Falcons’ decision to draft Bijan Robinson a polarizing one.
As highly-regarded as he was as a prospect, the thought process behind selecting a running back with a top ten pick in 2023 seemed farcical, especially for a team with a running back who had just broken the franchise rookie rushing yardage record. Much like many of Terry Fontenot’s high-profile draft decisions, he didn’t let outside skepticism affect his vision. Robinson was going to be at the nucleus of the Falcons’ success.
Although expectations weren’t met in 2023 and 2024, their most notable wins came with the prolific running back at the forefront of their offensive attack. That recipe hasn’t just continued in 2025. It has been greatly amplified, as Robnson has 168 total yards or more in Atlanta’s three wins. Those victories have all come against playoff teams from last season. He has been sensational since the third offensive play of the season, where he turned a checkdown into a 50-yard touchdown against Tampa Bay.
Any questioning of the decision to draft Robinson has left the room after seeing him take his game to another level following a terrific 2024 season. He currently leads the NFL in yards from scrimmage with 822 yards, despite the team already having a bye week. A once-rising star is transforming into a must-see superstar who gives the Falcons the platform to beat anyone with his skill set and determination.
Numerous qualities in Robinson’s game must be admired. His overall feel for the game in pacing his runs and timing to let plays develop. The lethal jump cuts will leave defenders questioning their life decisions. The ability to run through contact at the second level and gain extra yardage consistently happens every game. The continued improvement in pass protection has left even defensive tackles in a state of disarray, as Ed Oliver can attest to. The list is endless when analyzing his attributes. It all stems from the desire to grow as a player and not allow success to inflate his ego. It’s about getting better every day with total focus.
Speaking to ESPN’s Kevin Clark, he articulates how he studies the best running backs from the past and present. Being inspired by LaDainian Tomlinson’s attack-minded mentality to break defenders to the point where they didn’t want to tackle him elevated his game. In a dominant win against Minnesota, Brian Flores’ vaunted defense looked fearful in trying to stop Robinson and Tyler Allgeier. The...
