Nobody questioned the talent level of Bijan Robinson prior to the 2023 NFL draft. Through the first nine games, the former Texas star has lived up to the hype for the Atlanta Falcons.
Robinson has rushed for 517 yards this season, with 197 receiving yards and three total touchdowns. Plus, the rookie essentially missed a game due to a migraine in Week 7.
Draft Wire released rookie grades for each first-round pick at the midway point of the season. Robinson earned an A-minus grade from Draft Wire’s Jeff Risdon:
Robinson has looked impressive as both a runner (5.0 YPC) and receiver (28 catches). The limited usage in the Falcons’ curious offense has held him back more than anything Robinson lacks in talent and NFL readiness. — Jeff Risdon, Draft Wire
The Falcons clearly have a good one in Robinson, but head coach Arthur Smith has received some criticism for the rookie’s lack of rushing attempts. Robinson received a season-high 19 carries for 124 rushing yards against the Green Bay Packers in Week 2.
Aside from that, Robinson has yet to carry the ball more than 14 times in another game all season. It’s important to note, though, that the rookie has been featured heavily in the passing game. Robinson has 41 total targets this season.
The Falcons will look to get their fifth win of the year this weekend against the 1-8 Arizona Cardinals.
