Done deal :Dallas cowboys signed a talented player from Atlanta Falcons over $21,958,535m, as 4years contract
FLOWERY BRANCH, Ga. (AP) — Bijan Robinson has a new number with a big Atlanta history, a newly signed contract and huge expectations no rookie Falcons running back has faced in recent years.
The Falcons announced Friday on the opening day of the team’s three-day rookie minicamp that Robinson signed a $21.96 million, four-year contract with a fifth-year option. Robinson debuted his new No. 7 jersey — the number worn by former Atlanta quarterback Michael Vick — at the camp.
Robinson worked out an agreement with placekicker Younghoe Koo, who switched from No. 7 to No. 6.
Though no Falcons number has been retired, Robinson said coaches received approval from Vick for the rookie to wear No. 7.
Robinson acknowledged he thought twice about taking the number Vick wore for six years in Atlanta after being the No. 1 overall pick in the 2001 NFL draft. Vick was named to three Pro Bowl teams and became the first quarterback to rush for 1,000 yards before he served 21 months in federal prison after being found guilty for his role in a dog fighting ring.
“The coaches asked Vick if I could wear it and he was super excited about it,” Robinson said. “I think it’s pretty cool to continue on such a great number. When I was thinking about the number I was like ah, I don’t know if I should do it. There’s been some good players that wore it. But it means a lot to the program and I’m going to ride with it and do it the right way.”
Bijan Robinson is officially a member of the Atlanta Falcons.
According to NFL Network, the No. 8 overall pick in this year’s draft signed a four-year, $21.96 million rookie contract that is fully guaranteed and also includes a fifth-year option.
Robinson becomes the second member of the Falcons’ rookie class to sign his contract after seventh-round defensive back Demarcco Hellams agreed to terms earlier this week.
Robinson, 21, is coming off a stellar junior season for the Texas Longhorns, earning unanimous All-American honors after running for 1,580 yards and 18 touchdowns while averaging over six yards per carry. He was also a threat in the passing game, hauling in 19 passes for 314 yards and two scores.
While Robinson is expected to lead the Falcons’ backfield, head coach Arthur Smith believes he drafted more than just a running back.
Bijan’s more than a running back,” Smith said. “He’s an impact football player, he’s a home-run hitter. … He’s a valuable football player.”
Robinson is one of the highest-paid players in the 2023 draft class. He is also set to be one of the 15 highest-paid running backs with only second-contract players making more than him, per OverTheCap.
Even though the price is steep, the Falcons are really excited about Robinson and hope that he can make Atlanta proud with the pick it made.
