One of the most hyped running backs coming into any draft in recent history, it will be interesting to see if his talent level can overcome the stigma of drafting a running back high as he enters the 2023 class talent pool.
Here is everything you need to know about Bijan Robinson:
Vitals
Height: 6-0
Weight: 220
Class: Junior
Strengths
A physical specimen at the running back position, Bijan Robinson possesses an elite talent pool combined with a natural feel for the game. He is a prototypical three-down running back with some of the biggest upside we have seen since the likes of Saquon Barkley. His vision, burst, athleticism, and physical running style make him one of the most gifted athletes in this entire class and will grant him the ability to start in any scheme right away.
Robinson while being a violent runner does not lack in the receiver department either, and was asked to run just about every route in the running back wheelhouse at Texas, proving to be a reliable pass catcher out of the backfield and a legitimate threat to get the ball on any play.
His next-level skill set allowed Robinson to dominate all of college football and put up ridiculous numbers against high levels of competition. Even as a freshman, he was averaging an eye-popping 8.0 yards per carry on the ground. This past year he was a true workhorse for Texas, notching nearly 1,900 scrimmage yards and 20 total touchdowns. He was the clear offensive game plan for the Longhorns and there was rarely anything anyone could do to stop it.
Weaknesses
While Robinson does possess an elite initial burst past the offensive lines, his speed is by no means top of the class. He will likely be caught by defensive backs at the next level, though tackling him as a defensive back is a whole other conversation. His contact balance can be a little concerning as well; though he does run with a violent rumble he can be knocked off balance with a big enough hit.
He is also not the most natural catcher of the ball, and while he possesses good route running skills he will need to catch the football with his hands more often as he was often taking in the football with his entire body. Coaches will coach him up and make him one of the better dual threats in the game if he can nail that phase of the game down.
Projection
Robinson is without a doubt the top running back in the class and among the best players in the country, he is undoubtedly at the top of most teams big boards but will need to answer the question of taking a running back at the top of the first round and the value and history that comes with it. At the end of the day the talent will shine through and a team will take a chance on a guy that can be their immediate starter out of the gate and take the bulk of the running game on his shoulders. He will be a top end runner in the league right away.
Projection: Top 15 selection
