'I Won't Let Them Down': Bijan Robinson Drafted by Falcons, Delivers Promise

The Atlanta Falcons made Texas running back Bijan Robinson their first-round pick in the 2023 NFL Draft ... and the unanimous All-American is ready to get to work both on and off the field.

After weeks of speculation, the Atlanta Falcons drafted Texas running back Bijan Robinson at No. 8 overall in the 2023 NFL Draft.

Widely viewed as the draft's best offensive weapon, the 5-11, 215-pound Robinson is versatile, dynamic and ultra productive.

Robinson was a unanimous All-American for the Longhorns this past season, rushing for 1,580 yards and 18 touchdowns while averaging over six yards per carry.

Shortly after being selected, Robinson spoke with NFL Network and gave his thoughts on the moment ...

"This is such a big moment for me, my family," Robinson said. "I just appreciate the Falcons for picking me and I promise I won't let them down. I can't wait."

The Tucson, Az., native will play the entirety of his rookie season at only 21 years old; by the time his four-year rookie contract and fifth-year option expires, he'll have just turned 26, meaning a long-term extension will still be viable.

In addition to his production on the ground and young age, Robinson proved to be a stellar pass catcher during his time with the Longhorns, concluding his career with 805 receiving yards, third most by a running back in program history.

Robinson also showed that he doesn't need volume as a receiver to make an impact, collecting 314 yards and two scores on only 19 catches in 2022.

Speaking with reporters on call Thursday night, Robinson said Atlanta discussed playing him as a slot receiver, which he's comfortable with having previously done so during summer 7-on-7 sessions.

As the winner of the Doak Walker Award given annually to the best running back in college football, Robinson's on-field resume speaks for itself ... but he's aiming to make just as much of an impact in the city of Atlanta as he does inside Mercedes-Benz Stadium.

"Y'all (should) expect everything," Robinson said. "I can do it all on the field for the whole city, and for myself, try to get in the community and do so many great things for Atlanta. I can't wait to get there, we're going to have a good time, and it's such a blessing to be with y'all."

Robinson held a formal meeting with the Falcons at the NFL Combine that the talented ballcarrier described as "awesome," and the two sides met again at Texas' pro day in March.

Speaking at the Combine, Robinson gave a glowing review of Atlanta's staff - and now gets the opportunity to continue to grow his relationship with them.

"I love the whole staff," Robinson said. "Just great people, first off, and I can tell what they're trying to do with the program."

With the selection of Robinson, it's fully evident what the Falcons are "trying to do" - play smash-mouth football and surround second-year quarterback Desmond Ridder with as many talented weapons as possible.

And Robinson, who's character, versatility and playmaking ability are all special, certainly fits the Falcons' vision ... and is adamant that he "won't let them down.

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You can follow Daniel Flick on Twitter @DFlickDraft

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