Running back Bijan Robinson is delivering a standout performance in the 2025 NFL season, even as the Atlanta Falcons continue to struggle. Robinson currently leads the league with an average of 132.4 scrimmage yards per game and has accumulated 1,589 total yards from scrimmage, second only to Christian McCaffrey of the San Francisco 49ers. McCaffrey has played one more game than Robinson and is on a bye for Week 14.
Robinson’s rushing total stands at 995 yards, ranking fifth among all players, while his receiving yardage of 594 is second among running backs. Despite these achievements, the Falcons have a record of 4-8 and are third in the NFC South division. According to playoff simulations by The New York Times, Atlanta’s chances of reaching the postseason are less than 1%.
By comparison, McCaffrey’s similar individual statistics have helped propel the 49ers to a stronger team performance: they hold a 9-4 record and have a reported playoff probability of about 91%. This success has brought greater national attention to McCaffrey’s season.
The article notes that what Robinson is accomplishing deserves recognition because he continues to produce high numbers despite playing for a team struggling offensively. Defenses expect him to be central in Atlanta’s strategy but have been unable to contain him effectively.
Historically, running backs who finish seasons with top averages in yards from scrimmage typically play for successful teams; recent examples include McCaffrey in 2023 and Saquon Barkley in 2024. If Robinson maintains his current pace but misses out on postseason play due to team results, he would join Josh Jacobs (Las Vegas Raiders, 2022) as one of few leading rushers on losing teams.
Among this year’s top five running backs by scrimmage yardage—Robinson, McCaffrey (49ers), Jonathan Taylor (Colts), James Cook (Bills), and Jahmyr Gibbs (Lions)—Robinson is alone in playing for a team with a losing record.
Robinson also stands out among other players whose teams are not winning; he has managed at least 80 scrimmage yards in seven losses this season—more than any other player. The next closest is De’Von Achene of the Miami Dolphins with five such games.
In another notable statistic from recent history: over the past fifteen seasons there have only been two occasions where a player recorded at least 140 rushing yards, fifty receiving yards, and five catches during a loss—one being Robinson last Sunday against the New York Jets.
“Atlanta should be grateful to have Robinson. Everybody should appreciate what he is doing.”
