FLOWERY BRANCH, Ga. — The Atlanta Falcons exercised Bijan Robinson’s fifth-year option Friday, keeping the dynamic running back under contract through the 2027 season.
Bijan Robinson Stays Anchored in Atlanta’s Backfield
The move, first reported by ESPN’s Adam Schefter, comes as the team ramps up preparations for the 2026 NFL Draft. Robinson, the No. 8 overall pick in 2023, just wrapped his third NFL season with career highs across the board: 1,478 rushing yards on 287 carries and 820 receiving yards on 79 catches for a league-high 2,298 yards from scrimmage and 11 total touchdowns.
That production earned him first-team All-Pro honors and etched his name into the Falcons record book. Robinson didn’t just run — he dominated both phases, turning screens into big gains and powering through the line like few backs can.
With the option picked up, Robinson won’t hit unrestricted free agency until after the 2027 season. The front office now has breathing room to hammer out a long-term extension while he remains the clear lead back. Brian Robinson Jr. steps in as the primary backup after signing in free agency, with Tyler Goodson, Nathan Carter and Carlos Washington Jr. rounding out a deep room.
The timing feels right. Atlanta signed quarterback Tua Tagovailoa earlier this offseason, giving the offense a proven passer who can stretch the field. Robinson becomes the perfect complement — a back who can run between the tackles or catch out of the backfield and turn nothing into something explosive.
“Individual goals are great, but I’m going to continue to be the guy the team can rely on. Like I say every year, I’m just trying to be better than I was last year in all aspects of my game.” — Bijan Robinson, Falcons RB
What the Move Means for 2026 and Beyond
This wasn’t a surprise, but it sends a clear message: the Falcons view Robinson as the foundation of their offense. At 24, he’s already one of the league’s most complete backs, and the extra year of control buys precious time for extension talks without the pressure of an expiring deal looming.
Expect the front office to get aggressive once the draft wraps. Robinson has shown he can handle a heavy workload without breaking down — he played every game he was eligible for across three seasons. Pair that durability with Tua’s accuracy, and Atlanta suddenly looks dangerous on the ground and through the air.
Fans who packed Mercedes-Benz Stadium last fall and watched Robinson rip off chunk plays will get at least two more guaranteed seasons to cheer him on. The chilly winds of early 2026 workouts won’t change the buzz around Flowery Branch: this backfield is built to carry the offense, no matter what the draft brings.
The Falcons still have holes to fill, especially along the lines and in the secondary. But securing Robinson removes one massive question mark and lets them chase playmakers elsewhere with confidence.
