Bijan Robinson 'Might Be the Best Player' in 2023 NFL Draft, AFC Exec Says

The hype train surrounding former Texas running back Bijan Robinson continues to gain speed as the NFL draft quickly approaches. Robinson has been the most hyped running back prospect to turn pro since Saquon Barkley came out of Penn State in 2018.

But he isn't merely seen as just the best running back in this draft class. He's considered one of its most elite players, regardless of position.

One AFC executive told ESPN's Jeremy Fowler that Robinson "might be the best player in the entire class." High praise considering that there are several elite quarterback prospects set to be taken in the first round.

The only thing that could keep a talent like Robinson from being drafted inside the top 10 is his position. It's become increasingly rare to see a running back taken that high.

There hasn't been a running back taken in the top 20—much less the top 10— since Barkley was selected with the No. 2 pick by the Giants, a move that was criticized even though he's gone on to make two Pro Bowls and was the Offensive Rookie of the Year in 2018.

Still, Robinson's ability has teams salivating, with some evaluators even considering him a Hall of Fame-type talent.

While he was outstanding throughout his collegiate career with the Longhorns, he really popped off during his junior season in 2022, rushing for 1,580 yards and 18 touchdowns. He also caught 19 passes for 314 yards and two more scores.

In the B/R NFL Scouting Department's most recent mock draft, Robinson was projected to go No. 26 overall to the Dallas Cowboys.