Big Expectations for Bijan Robinson’s Third Season

There’s an increasing feeling across the A.T.L. and beyond that Bijan Robinson is poised to reach super stardom. He is significantly younger than Saquon Barkley and Derrick Henry, and it seems we are on the brink of something extraordinary, possibly a period of dominance not witnessed in decades. In the franchise's history, several running backs have achieved notable status during their third seasons, which Bijan officially enters this September. That’s when the games truly matter. Gerald Riggs became a starter in his third year and recorded career highs in both yardage and touchdowns. Jamal Anderson also had his first of four seasons with over 1,000 yards in his third year. Even Devonta Freeman demonstrated remarkable consistency, rushing for just 18 more yards than in his second season. Among the all-time greats, Emmitt Smith first surpassed the 1,700-yard mark with the Cowboys at the young age of 23, during his third year with Dallas. Barry Sanders recorded his highest single-season touchdown total (16) in his third season in Detroit. Perhaps the most impressive was fellow Texas Longhorn, Earl Campbell, who in his third season with the Oilers, averaged an incredible 5.2 yards per carry, accumulating 1,934 yards in just 15 games. However, it’s not always guaranteed that the third time will be the charm. Eric Dickerson started his third year embroiled in a contract dispute with the Rams, which caused him to miss the opening weeks and resulted in lower statistics. Ricky Williams had overstayed his welcome after year three and was traded from Bourbon Street to South Beach, leaving one party scene for another. If Bijan is just beginning to tap into his potential, Falcons fans have every reason to be excited about the possibilities. Robinson is already expressing his desire to be more explosive with longer runs from scrimmage in the upcoming season. The sky is the limit.