Atlanta Falcons running back Bijan Robinson issued a stern warning to teammates about social media following Sunday\'s 30-27 overtime loss to the Carolina Panthers. Robinson called social media \"controlled by the devil\" and said it can divide locker rooms as the Falcons dropped to 3-7 with their fifth consecutive defeat.
\"It\'s just controlled by the devil,\" Robinson said. \"If it gets in this locker room, that\'s what divides locker rooms. I\'ve seen it. It shuts guys down.\"
The second-year running back said he will address the entire team if necessary to prevent outside noise from infiltrating the locker room. Robinson acknowledged speaking publicly goes against his natural leadership style but believes the message is critical.
\"I can\'t let it happen,\" Robinson said. \"I\'m not going to let it happen. I\'m going to do as much as I can to eliminate all that stuff. If I have to say it in front of the whole team, I\'ll do it. Because if that\'s what it takes, that\'s what it takes right now.\"
The loss dropped Atlanta\'s playoff chances to less than 1 percent according to the New York Times\' simulator. The Falcons have seven games remaining on their 2025 schedule and owe their first round pick to the Los Angeles Rams.
\"Don\'t even worry about the playoff picture,\" running back Tyler Allgeier said. \"It\'s just winning 1-0, and everything will play its part.\"
Atlanta built a 21-10 halftime lead with 163 passing yards from Michael Penix Jr. and 94 rushing yards from Robinson and Allgeier. The Falcons were held to just 27 rushing yards and 60 passing yards in the second half.
Atlanta went three-and-out in overtime, gaining just 4 yards. Right guard Chris Lindstrom acknowledged fan frustration is understandable.
Robinson said negative social media commentary can destroy player confidence and mentality. He cited fictional critics as examples of voices players should ignore.
\"If you have Mr. Cream on social media talking about you, (saying) you\'re not good enough and you\'re not producing, do you listen to that?\" Robinson said. \"That\'s going to affect your whole mentality. I\'ve seen plenty of guys get into that position, and it just kills them.\"
Allgeier emphasized the importance of ignoring outside opinions. No coaches or players have expressed concern about locker room unity following the loss.
