Falcons select running back Bijan Robinson with the No. 8 pick in draft

ATLANTA — The Atlanta Falcons selected running back Bijan Robinson with the No. 8 pick in the 2023 NFL Draft.

Robinson, who had a tremendous three-year college career at the University of Texas, was considered far and away the most dynamic running back in this year’s draft class.

Channel 2 sports director Zach Klein was in Kansas City for the NFL Draft and spoke with Robinson moments after he heard NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell call his name.

“It’s a special moment. I get to bring myself to Atlanta. It’s such a great city. It’s a great place to be and I know that there’s so much history there. I want to be a part of that and be part of that great team they are building up right now,” Robinson said.

Under head coach Arthur Smith, the Falcons have established a run-first offense, which Robinson should boost in a major way. Robinson joins Tyler Allgeier in the Falcons’ backfield. Allgeier had a fantastic rookie season in 2022, running for 1,035 yards.

The Falcons also had Robinson test out his receiving skills during a private workout before the draft in Atlanta.

“I’m actually glad they did that so they could see a different part of my game and see how Arthur Smith wants to use me in the offense can use me,” Robinson told Klein. “I feel like being versatile is a key piece and adds value.”

The Falcons’ next pick is slated at No. 44.

You can watch all seven rounds of the NFL Draft LIVE Thursday, Friday and Saturday on Channel 2.

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