Falcons Sign Bijan Robinson to Four-Year Extension Following Hold-In

The Atlanta Falcons inked running back Bijan Robinson to a four-year contract extension Tuesday. This ended his hold-in, which had sidelined him from practice as both parties hammered out terms.

Head coach Kevin Stefanski characterized talks as smooth despite Robinson's absence from drills. Bonds between the organization and their star stayed strong throughout.

"I know you guys saw the news on Bijan, obviously very excited for him, for us," Stefanski said in his Tuesday press conference, per NBC Sports. "[We] just knew throughout this process that there would be a process and felt good about where we were. But, I think everybody understands how we feel about Bijan the person, Bijan the player."

Stefanski confirmed discussions remained "very amicable" as Robinson awaited his second pro contract. He spoke to reporters one day after both sides finalized terms.

Robinson led the league with 2,298 yards from scrimmage last season. He rushed for 1,478 yards and hauled in 79 catches for 820 yards.

The back will need time to regain game shape after skipping practice during his hold-in. Stefanski plans a careful approach to reintegrate his player with more than a month remaining before Week 1.

"He's eager — beyond eager — to get out there," Stefanski said. "So, on that note, we'll slowly get him back in there. It won't be full go and let him go — we'll have a plan here over the next, call it, week to ramp him up."

Atlanta will implement a week-long plan to bring Robinson back to full participation. The gradual return seeks to prevent injury while preparing him for the upcoming season.