NFL executive on Bijan Robinson: ‘He’s special but not worth the investment’

The 2023 NFL Draft is quickly approaching, and while many of the top players on the board this year are quarterbacks, running back Bijan Robinson is certainly a key prospect to monitor.

The University of Texas product had a very impressive collegiate career and is now one of the top playmakers available in this year’s draft.

ESPN’s Jordan Reid recently offered some information on where the running back could be drafted. Per Reid, while many scouts think Robinson will be picked inside the top 20, one executive doesn’t think the 21-year-old is “worth the investment.”

“Every scout I’ve spoken with says there’s no way that Robinson — a consensus top-five prospect who plays a devalued position — makes it outside the top 20,” wrote Reid. “But an NFL exec says, ‘He’s special but not worth the investment. Look at all of the teams that signed running backs to second contracts. It’s not pretty and many never ever see the end of the deal.'”

In recent years, many folks have started to view running backs as easily replaceable players. Some believe that reliable running back production is merely a product of good offensive line play.

There’s also a belief that the gap between elite running back production and average running back production isn’t big enough to warrant serious investments in the position.

Philosophies of that nature have seemingly caused teams to be less aggressive when drafting and signing running backs. It seems like that could be why the aforementioned executive has hesitations about Robinson.

During his time at Texas, the youngster had three impressive seasons, and he saved his best for last. In the 2022 campaign, he rushed for 1,580 yards in 12 games, averaging 6.1 yards per carry. He added 18 rushing touchdowns in the process.

He also made an impact through the air. In the 2022 season, he caught 19 passes for 314 yards and two scores.

The modern view of running backs could cause Robinson to drop slightly in the draft, but there’s no doubt that he’s going to get a chance to shine in the NFL. He’ll surely make the most of his opportunity with whichever team picks him up.

Robinson recently revealed that he’s only visited the Philadelphia Eagles and Tampa Bay Buccaneers in the predraft process, though he mentioned he’s been talking to lots of teams over Zoom.

Both the Eagles and Buccaneers are to set pick within the top 20 of the draft.

The draft is now less than a week away, as the first day is set for April 27. It won’t be long before Robinson and other players from the 2023 class learn where they’re headed.