The Falcons surprised many by selecting Bijan Robinson as the highest-drafted running back since Saquon Barkley. Despite Robinson’s solid rookie season with 946 rushing yards, 487 receiving yards, and eight total touchdowns, some expected him to compete for the Offensive Rookie of the Year award.
Matt Miller compared Robinson’s situation to that of Brock Bowers, considered by many to be the greatest college tight end of all time. Miller noted that both Robinson and Bowers were highly talented players, but finding the right fit for them in the draft was challenging. The Falcons, however, were comfortable taking Robinson early and ended up with a great player.
Falcons fans are familiar with the scrutiny that comes with drafting non-premium position players early in the draft, as seen with Kyle Pitts, the highest-drafted tight end in league history. Bowers, a two-time winner of the Mackey Award for the country’s top tight end, is also considered a top-10 talent. However, like Pitts and Robinson, Bowers will need to land in the right situation to realize his potential.
Miller emphasized the importance of teams selecting the best player available, regardless of position, which is the approach the Falcons took with Bowers. He highlighted that Bowers could become a Pro Bowl player if drafted by a team with a clear plan for him, similar to the situation with Robinson and Pitts in Atlanta.
