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The Patriots have an interest in Texas running back Bijan Robinson and are rumored to possibly be bringing him in for a top 30 visit at some point in the next two weeks. If that is the case, the Patriots are obviously doing their due diligence but bringing in Robinson should be about more than that. He is one of the three best players in this draft and is worthy of a visit regardless of what anyone thinks of the running back position.

Running back has become a position now where you can find a starting caliber back in any round particularly day two and three. On the surface, investing a first round pick on a running back seems like a wasted pick but Robinson is a different type of dude. If he stays healthy, he has the physical skill set to be an elite player who impacts the game on all three downs. Robinson is a thickly built back, he has great feet and is an explosive finisher in space. He is the type of back who can absorb 20-25 carries a game and be a game changer.

So should the Patriots consider drafting him if he is available at 14? Yes. Absolutely. Here is why.

1. Three down back: Robinson can impact a game on any down or any situation. He runs with good balance and a low center of gravity on contact. Robinson has smooth quick feet and can accelerate through the hole and separate versus defenders in space.

In the passing game, he is a playmaker in the screen game. He shows good patience and has a natural feel for fitting into blocks in space and accelerating into the open field. His pass blocking needs some refinement but he has the size and the strength to be a good pass blocker.

2. Can be used in a variety of ways in personnel groupings and formations: With Bill O’Brien back as the offensive coordinator, the running back position will be featured more in the offense, specifically in the passing game. Robinson is a great fit in the Patriots offense because of his ability to catch the football and also line up all over formations and create match-ups. He can be used in the back field, motion out, line up in the slot and split out wide. That versatility will make a valuable commodity in the Patriots offense.

3. Gives the offense a legitimate playmaker to pair with the rest of the skill group: The Patriots skill group is good but not great. It lacks that elite playmaker and home run hitter. Robinson could be that guy and pairing him with Rhamondre Stevenson makes him even more lethal. He won’t require as many touches in a time share so he can be fresh and more effective. The Patriots lack of a big play element in the offense is glaring. Robinson would solve that problem.

Drafting a running back in the first round is taboo nowadays but a special player like Robinson only comes along so often at the position. Do not dismiss the idea of the Patriots or any other team using a first round pick on him. Robinson is a top ten talent and worthy of a first round selection.