Former Longhorns Star Bijan Robinson Named AP NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year Award Finalist

The former five-star recruit has already hit the ground running in the NFL as he is viewed as one of the best rookies in the league.

Texas Longhorns fans were quickly made aware of how special the five-star running back out of Arizona was, and after his three great seasons in Austin, he is already an NFL star.

On Thursday, the now Atlanta Falcons star Bijan Robinson was named among the five finalists for AP NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year Award. Joining him as finalists are fellow running back Jahmyr Gibbs (Lions), wide receiver Puka Nacua (Rams), tight end Sam LaPorta (Lions), and quarterback CJ Stroud (Texans).

Atlanta Falcons running back Bijan Robinson  / © Brett Davis, USA TODAY

Robinson was taken with the No. 8 overall pick in this past year's NFL Draft, and even despite an unwillingness from Arthur Smith to utilize him as much as he should have, Robinson exploded. In his first year in Atlanta, while sporting Michael Vick's No. 7, Robinson led all rookies with 976 rushing yards. He also rushed for four touchdowns, while also totaling 58 receptions for 487 yards and additional four scores.

Robinson can take an even bigger step next season with a new head coach, and a better passing attack with a new quarterback that should open up the run game even more. The winner of the award will be revealed at the NFL honors ceremony on February 8.

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If Robinson were to win the award, he would mark the first running back to win the award since New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley won it back in 2018. Since Barkley, there have been two quarterbacks and two receivers to win the award. As it stands right now, Stroud is the overwhelming favorite.