Tag: Dallas Cowboys mock draft

Five reasons Texas RB Bijan Robinson is worth drafting in late first round

We examine why Bijan is an excellent late first round pick.

Bijan Robinson is a primary topic of draft season for many who follow pro and college football. Experts are split on where Bijan should be drafted. In particular, the consensus is Robinson is the best at his position. Despite that, many debate the value of the running back position.

Our colleague Patrick Conn projected Robinson to the Dallas Cowboys at No. 27. He had the following to say about the move.

The Cowboys could go cornerback here but adding a dynamic running back in Bijan could help them solve some cash tied up in Ezekiel Elliott. The team can save $5 million by going with a younger back, who showed that he can win as a runner, receiver, and blocker.

Some Cowboys fans would be opposed to drafting a running back given how Ezekiel Elliott’s ability has eroded in recent years. That fear might be unfounded.

Let’s look at why Bijan would be the right move should he fall to No. 27.

WATCH: Bijan Robinson channels Barry Sanders on this run

Former NFL scout compares Bijan Robinson to Barry Sanders.

Bijan Robinson is not just any running back. He has the ability to become an all-time NFL great.

Former NFL scout Bryan Broaddus was reminded of another elite back watching Robinson play. He had the following to say about Bijan earlier this month.

He’s one of the best players in the country regardless of position. I had visions of Barry Sanders watching him play.

Broaddus’ comparison is high praise, but fits what we have seen from the special runner. Robinson’s innate ability to find openings that are not apparent to the average back has impressed since his freshman season.

The play below encapsulates what Broaddus likely sees from the Texas running back. Baylor defensive tackle Siaki Ika makes an incredible maneuver to get into the backfield. Bijan nullifies the move by countering with impressive footwork of his own.

In general, it’s true that most any starting caliber running back is as good as another in the NFL. But, as indicated by the above run, Bijan Robinson is on a tier of his own.