Texas Longhorns running back Bijan Robinson announced his intention to declare for the 2023 NFL Draft Monday during a press conference. He will not play with the No. 20 Longhorns (8-4, 5-3 Big 12) during his Alamo Bowl matchup against No. 12 Washington in San Antonio on Dec. 29.
The reigning Doak Walker Award winner still had two years of eligibility remaining due to the COVID-19 waiver. Robinson is projected to be a first-round draft pick and is considered the “safest” running back prospect since Saquon Barkley in 2018.
Robinson said his decision wasn’t an easy one. Despite being considered the consensus top prospect at his position, the Tempe, Ariz. native hoped to bring Texas back to consistent relevancy during his three seasons.