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Atlanta Falcons running back Bijan Robinson is waiting for a lucrative contract extension, staging a hold-in at training camp while the team works out a deal that could reset the market for his position. The All-Pro back, who is entering the fourth year of his rookie contract worth $21 million, has been present at camp but has not taken part in team drills.
Head coach Kevin Stefanski addressed the situation on Friday, July 31, noting that contract matters are part of the NFL landscape. He emphasized that these issues do not affect relationships and that the team trusts the process. Quarterback Tua Tagovailoa, who went through a similar hold-in two offseasons ago, expressed support for Robinson, saying the team lets the general manager and agent handle the business while Robinson remains around his teammates.
Key Analysis
Robinson's hold-in comes after a stellar 2025 season where he led the NFL with 2,298 scrimmage yards, rushing for 1,478 yards, adding 820 receiving yards, and scoring 11 touchdowns. He is widely considered one of the league's top running backs, often ranked alongside Detroit's Jahmyr Gibbs, who is also holding in for a new contract. Left guard Matthew Bergeron, who recently signed a four-year, $96 million extension, voiced support for Robinson, calling him the best running back in the NFL and hoping he gets compensated accordingly.
The Falcons have been proactive in rewarding their key players, having extended wide receiver Drake London, tight end Kyle Pitts Sr., and Bergeron. Robinson's teammates understand the business side of the game and are backing him as he seeks a deal that reflects his elite production.