NFL Draft Profile: Bijan Robinson

As the NFL's annual free agency frenzy comes to a close, it's time for teams to look forward to the year's best and last chance to improve their rosters: the NFL Draft. As April 27th approaches, we'll look at the prospects most likely to transform a franchise's fortunes.

The Player: Bijan Robinson, Running Back

Running back may not be the glamorous position it once was, but prospects like Texas's Bijan Robinson don't come along every draft. The 2022 Doak Walker Award winner compiled 3410 rushing yards, 805 receiving yards, and 41 total touchdowns over 31 appearances for the Longhorns. Only Ricky Williams, Cedric Benson, and Earl Campbell rushed for more yards in the school's history.

The Tools:

Robinson has ideal size (5'11", 215 lbs) and explosiveness for the position. His 4.46-second 40-yard dash, 37" vertical leap, and 10'4" broad jump were all among the best marks at this year's combine for running backs. He has demonstrated the durability and reliability requisite for inside running and the hands and elusiveness to contribute in the passing game.

The Verdict:

Robinson is a very complete prospect, but he doesn't have the transcendent skillset or resume it takes in this day and age to land at the top of the draft as a running back. He may tempt teams at the back of the first round, but his profile projects closer to a high second-round pick. If all goes well, he could achieve a Jonathan Taylor-level ceiling or even approach the deadly two-way game of Alvin Kamara.

Photo Credit: © Aaron E. Martinez / USA TODAY NETWORK