When NFL free agency starts, ESPN predicts that the former Texas Longhorn will be a significant acquisition to watch.
NFL free agency is one of the most anticipated events in the sports calendar, with fans, analysts, and teams alike eagerly speculating on which players will land with new teams and make the biggest impacts. As the free agency period begins each year, ESPN and other sports outlets typically release predictions, evaluating players who are likely to see major movement in the market based on their performances, potential, and team needs. This year, one prediction that stands out is the potential acquisition of a former Texas Longhorn player who is expected to be a significant signing for an NFL franchise.
The player in question, Bijan Robinson, has been a standout performer for the Texas Longhorns over the last several seasons, drawing attention as one of the most elite running back prospects in recent years. His combination of vision, power, agility, and versatility has led to comparisons with some of the greatest running backs in college football history, and ESPN’s analysis indicates that he will be one of the most coveted players during the free agency period.
With the NFL rapidly evolving, teams are increasingly looking to shore up their rosters with dynamic playmakers, and Robinson fits the bill perfectly. The fact that he’s a former Longhorn only adds to the excitement around his future in the league. Texas has long been a pipeline for NFL talent, producing some of the most iconic players to ever grace the field. From Earl Campbell to Jamaal Charles and Michael Huff, the Longhorns have consistently provided some of the league’s most talented athletes, and Bijan Robinson is poised to follow in those footsteps.
In this article, we’ll break down why Bijan Robinson is predicted to be one of the most significant acquisitions of this upcoming NFL free agency period. We’ll explore his journey from Texas to NFL stardom, the skills that make him an elite prospect, and how ESPN’s analysis of his potential fits into the broader context of team needs and free agency trends.
Bijan Robinson’s Journey: From Texas to the NFL
Before diving into the specifics of why Robinson is such an attractive acquisition, it’s important to understand his path from Austin, Texas, to NFL stardom.
Robinson was a highly sought-after recruit coming out of Salpointe Catholic High School in Tucson, Arizona. As a five-star prospect, he had offers from virtually every major program in the country, but it was the University of Texas that ultimately landed his services. His freshman season in 2020 saw flashes of brilliance, but it was in 2021 and 2022 that Robinson truly began to establish himself as one of the best running backs in college football.
Over his career at Texas, Robinson accumulated over 3,400 rushing yards and 33 touchdowns. His best season came in 2022, where he ran for 1,580 yards and 18 touchdowns while also contributing 314 receiving yards and two receiving touchdowns. His combination of power, agility, and field vision made him one of the most complete running backs in the NCAA.
Robinson’s accolades also speak for themselves. He was named a consensus All-American in 2022, and his performances led Texas to a competitive season in the Big 12 Conference. However, despite the Longhorns not making the College Football Playoff, Robinson’s individual performances never went unnoticed, and he cemented himself as the top running back prospect heading into the NFL Draft.
When Robinson declared for the draft, there was little doubt that he would be one of the top picks. His ability to be a three-down back, combined with his leadership and character off the field, made him an appealing option for any team looking to build an explosive offense. ESPN and other analysts noted that Robinson’s maturity and polished game were far beyond his years, making him one of the most coveted players heading into the free agency period.
The Appeal of Bijan Robinson: What Sets Him Apart
As NFL teams look to build championship-caliber rosters, the need for dynamic running backs has never been greater. The running back position has evolved dramatically in recent years, with teams seeking players who can contribute both on the ground and in the passing game. Bijan Robinson stands out in this regard, as he possesses a rare combination of skills that make him a three-down threat.
- Vision and Patience: Robinson has an uncanny ability to read defenses and find holes in the line of scrimmage. His patience as he waits for blocks to develop and his natural ability to make defenders miss in tight spaces make him an elite ball carrier. His vision on the field allows him to consistently make the right decision when it comes to where he should run and how he should attack a defense.
- Balance and Agility: Robinson is known for his incredible balance and agility, which allow him to stay upright and break tackles in the open field. Whether it’s breaking a tackle at the line of scrimmage or making a defender miss in the open field, Robinson’s ability to remain on his feet after contact is one of his defining traits.
- Speed: While Robinson isn’t necessarily the fastest running back in terms of pure 40-yard dash speed, his burst and acceleration make him a threat to break big plays at any moment. His ability to hit top speed quickly and outrun defenders is something that will translate well to the NFL, especially when paired with his field vision.
- Receiving Ability: One of the areas where Robinson stands out above most other running backs in this draft class is his ability to contribute in the passing game. His 314 receiving yards and two touchdowns in his final season at Texas show that he can be a reliable pass-catching option out of the backfield. In the modern NFL, where running backs are often required to catch passes, Robinson’s receiving ability makes him even more valuable.
- Work Ethic and Leadership: Off the field, Robinson’s leadership and work ethic have earned him the respect of his coaches, teammates, and scouts alike. He is often described as a humble and hardworking player who puts the team first, making him an attractive option for teams looking for a leader who can positively impact the locker room.
NFL Teams Likely to Pursue Bijan Robinson
Given his talent and skill set, it’s no surprise that Robinson is predicted to be one of the most significant acquisitions in NFL free agency. His versatility and ability to contribute in multiple facets of the game make him an ideal fit for a variety of teams looking to bolster their backfield.
While the NFL Draft is the more traditional route for acquiring young talent, Robinson’s skill set could be valuable in free agency as well. Some teams, such as the Miami Dolphins, Atlanta Falcons, Buffalo Bills, and Dallas Cowboys, could be among the franchises eager to make a move for a player of Robinson’s caliber.
- Miami Dolphins: The Dolphins have one of the most explosive offenses in the NFL, led by quarterback Tua Tagovailoa and wide receiver Tyreek Hill. Adding a versatile, dynamic running back like Robinson to the backfield would give Miami another weapon in their already potent offensive arsenal. Robinson’s ability to contribute in both the running and passing games would complement the Dolphins’ high-powered offense and make them even more dangerous.
- Atlanta Falcons: The Falcons are a team in need of a consistent and reliable running back, and Robinson would fit the bill perfectly. With a young quarterback in Desmond Ridder and an offense that relies heavily on the running game, Robinson would provide a significant upgrade to the Falcons’ backfield and help balance out their offensive attack. Robinson’s ability to catch passes out of the backfield would also make him a valuable asset in Atlanta’s scheme.
- Buffalo Bills: While the Bills have an elite quarterback in Josh Allen, they have struggled to find a consistent running back to complement their offense. Robinson would give Buffalo the dynamic runner they’ve been searching for, allowing them to be more balanced and take some pressure off Allen. Adding Robinson would also give Buffalo another playmaker in the passing game, something that would elevate their offense even further.
- Dallas Cowboys: The Cowboys are a team that always seems to be in the mix for top-tier talent, and with Ezekiel Elliott potentially on his way out, Robinson could be the perfect replacement. With quarterback Dak Prescott and a strong offensive line, Robinson would instantly upgrade the Cowboys’ running back room and give them a young, talented player to build around.
Bijan Robinson’s Impact on the NFL
When Robinson is inevitably drafted or signed, his impact will be felt across the league. As more and more teams look to add dynamic running backs who can contribute in both the run and pass games, Robinson’s skill set makes him a three-down back with the potential to change the fortunes of any franchise. His versatility gives teams the option to use him in multiple ways, making him a matchup nightmare for opposing defenses.
Moreover, Robinson’s leadership and high character will add intangible value to whichever team selects or signs him. He represents the best of what college football has to offer, with the potential to make a similar impact in the NFL.
