The Falcons Offense Might be the Most Versatile in the NFL

We can debate the merits of selecting a running back with the 8th overall pick another time. Right now, let’s focus on how dangerous the Atlanta Falcons have made their offense by drafting Texas running back Bijan Robinson.

It’s easy to understand what he brings to the table as a runner. In 12 games last season, he rushed for 1,580 yards and 18 touchdowns, averaging 6.1 yards per carry. He forced 104 missed tackles according to Pro Football Focus. He won the 2022 Doak Walker award given to the best running back in college football. He’ll fit more than nicely into Arthur Smith’s running game.

But the more intriguing aspect of the pick is how he’ll contribute to the Falcons’ flexibility on offense.

Atlanta already specializes in unconventional weapons.

Tight end Kyle Pitts has the skill-set of a wide receiver and aligns all over the formation. During his first two years in the league, he spent 34% of his snaps inline in the traditional tight end position, 35% in the slot, and 29% out wide (according to PFF).

Running back Cordarrelle Patterson used to be a receiver. Since joining the Falcons, he’s spent 70% of his time in the backfield, 11% in the slot, and 16% on the perimeter.

6’4” wide receiver Drake London was primarily used on the outside during his 2022 rookie season. But he can play inside as a big slot as well. In fact, he played almost exclusively inside during his 2019 and 2020 seasons at USC.

And now the Falcons have Robinson, who can not only make big plays catching the ball out of the backfield, but he can also win as a receiver in the slot. Just take a look at this example below: