ATLANTA - The Atlanta Falcons have exercised the fifth-year option on running back Bijan Robinson's contract, securing his services through the 2027 season. This move, made official Friday, signals the team's commitment to a player who has rapidly ascended to star status. The decision comes as no surprise, with team officials, including new general manager Ian Cunningham, publicly acknowledging Robinson's significant impact both on and off the field.
The Falcons' decision locks Robinson in for a year that is expected to pay handsomely, potentially placing him among the top five highest-paid running backs in the league for that season. This proactive step effectively extends his contractual control over the player, allowing the organization more time to negotiate a long-term deal.
Robinson, now 24, has already carved out a significant place in the Falcons' record books. Last season, he shattered the team's all-time scrimmage yardage record, accumulating 2,298 yards from scrimmage. This figure not only led the entire NFL but also stands as the 12th-highest single-season total in league history. His production was a balanced mix of 1,478 rushing yards and 820 receiving yards on 366 total touches. He also recorded 11 total touchdowns and 79 receptions, showcasing his dual-threat capability.
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"While racking up those yards, Robinson left a wake of dropped jaws and broken ankles as he generated big play after big play."
New head coach Kevin Stefanski has indicated his intention to continue utilizing Robinson extensively, a prospect that aligns with the running back's proven ability to handle a heavy workload. Over the past three years, Robinson's 5,648 scrimmage yards outpace any other player in the league, and his 3,910 rushing yards rank him behind only Derrick Henry and Saquon Barkley in that same span.
Despite his on-field achievements and the contractual security the fifth-year option provides, Robinson has maintained a focus on immediate performance. When questioned about extension talks earlier this week, he deflected, stating his priority is continuous improvement.
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The move also provides a strategic advantage for the Falcons' front office. General Manager Ian Cunningham had previously indicated that contract extensions for Robinson and wide receiver Drake London would likely be deferred until after the upcoming NFL draft. By exercising the fifth-year option, the team has effectively bought more time to negotiate future agreements, pushing discussions further down the road.
Robinson, a first-round pick in the 2023 NFL Draft, is entering his fourth season. His consistently elite performance has not only earned him Pro Bowl selections but also first-team All-Pro recognition as a running back and second-team All-Pro honors as an all-purpose player.
The fifth-year option, a mechanism available for first-round draft picks, allows teams to extend a player's rookie contract for an additional season at a predetermined salary. This decision is typically made during the player's third year. The deadline for such decisions for the 2023 draft class was May 1. Robinson's option pickup was confirmed as occurring on Friday, April 10, 2026, well ahead of the typical deadline.
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