Running Back – Texas
5’11” 215 lbs
1st Round – 8th pick (8th Overall) – Atlanta Falcons
The Atlanta Falcons made a bold move in the 2023 NFL Draft, selecting running back Bijan Robinson with the eighth overall pick. Robinson, a star running back from the University of Texas, has been widely regarded as one of the draft’s top prospects. Clearly, the Falcons have demonstrated that they believe he has what it takes to make an impact in the NFL.
Now, Robinson will be stepping into what is regarded as one of the better run offenses in the league. The plays are orchestrated by Arthur Smith, who was the conductor behind Derrick Henry’s historical 2,000-yard rushing season. I will not go as far as to say that Robinson will match this feat in his career, but I will also say that it is well within reach if he holds his career trajectory.
Robinson was a dominant force on the field at Texas, rushing for over 3,400 yards and 33 touchdowns during his three seasons. In his collegiate career, he caught 60 passes for 805 yards and eight touchdowns, demonstrating his versatility as a receiver. Additionally, he held a remarkable 39% missed tackle rate on his 599 touches in the orange and white. Overall, it’s clear the Falcons believe that his true three-down skill set will allow him to translate his college success to the professional level seamlessly.
Fantasy Football Outlook
Robinson’s greatest strength is as an incredibly talented rusher. He possesses a rare combination of power, speed, agility, and balance, making him a threat to make big plays on every snap. Additionally, he is also a capable receiver out of the backfield or out of the slot. This only adds to his value in PPR leagues.
Robinson is already a first-round pick in early best ball drafts and many dynasty startups before we knew of his landing spot. Now that it is set in stone that he has gotten top-10 draft capital, he is in line to begin his reign over the fantasy landscape for years to come.
First off, Tyler Allgeier has been relegated to a handcuff, both for your fantasy teams and the Falcons. He will not crack a lineup unless Robinson is hurt or he scores a couple of touchdowns in best ball format. Next, Cordarrelle Patterson is now an afterthought who will likely be relegated to kick-return duties. We’ll see what his future in the NFL looks like.
As for whoever ends up starting at quarterback in Atlanta, Desmond Ridder or Taylor Heinicke, Robinson will help ease their worries. He can do this by providing a safe check-down option and reliable pass protection against the stoutest of rushers.
Dynasty Outlook
In dynasty fantasy football, your RB1 has arrived. Though there are several other names in contention for this illustrious title, Robinson holds the lead because of his landing spot and his draft capital investment with his new home in Atlanta. Don’t be afraid to draft him as the RB1 overall in your upcoming dynasty startup drafts.
While running backs are currently at the lowest value point we have ever seen, Robinson is a true return to the legendary bell cow back. Due to the unrivaled upside his profile holds, he is the unquestioned 1.01 in all rookie drafts outside of the most obscure quarterback premium leagues. The rule of Prince who was Promised has begun. Long may he reign.
For the latest free agent news, check out the Fantasy Football News Tracker.
Trending Now
Dynasty Content
Connect and Engage with the Show:
- Subscribe on YouTube
- Visit us on the Web
- Follow us on Facebook
- Follow on Twitter
- Subscribe on Apple Podcasts
- Follow on Instagram
- Subscribe on Google Podcasts
- Subscribe on Spotify
Join our Communities:
