The Atlanta Falcons made headlines earlier this week when the NFL questioned rookie running back Bijan Robinson’s lack of use in Sunday’s 16-13 win over the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Robinson, the No. 8 overall choice in April’s draft, is Atlanta’s leading rusher with 404 yards on the ground and was tied for the team lead in receptions entering last week’s game, functioning as the explosive two-way threat many expected him to be.
However, against Tampa Bay, the 21-year-old saw only 11 total snaps and one rush for three yards, which came on Atlanta’s final offensive play. Falcons coach Arthur Smith confirmed after the game that Robinson was not feeling well. Robinson stated that he was suffering from a severe headache and attempted to take medication but was unable to do so.
According to ESPN, the NFL asked the Falcons about injury report compliance earlier this week, including when the organization learned Robinson wasn’t healthy and why it wasn’t reported as league protocol demands.
Although the charges are serious, Smith stated during his news conference on Wednesday that he is unconcerned about the situation. “I understand that outrage and drama sell,” Smith admitted. “But, if you really understand how things work, there’s nothing there.” “I haven’t given it a second thought.”
Smith said that everything in 2023 is transparent, and Robinson will return to practice on Wednesday. Robinson stated after Sunday’s victory that he and Smith discussed getting ready for this week’s game against the Tennessee Titans before the game, and the former University of Texas standout expected to be ready.
And it now looks that the Falcons are clear to proceed with the NFL’s inquiry into how Robinson’s absence was handled. Atlanta will play Tennessee at 1 p.m. EST Sunday inside Nissan Stadium, with Robinson expected to return.
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