Atlanta Falcons running back Bijan Robinson was raised by his mother, LaMore Robinson, now known as LaMore Sauls, with significant support from his maternal grandparents, Cleo and Gerri Robinson. His biological father was not involved in his upbringing, making his grandfather Cleo the most important father figure in his childhood. Growing up in Tucson, Arizona, Robinson developed a close relationship with his family, whose guidance helped him become one of the NFL’s most talented young running backs.
Who Are His Parents?
Bijan Robinson’s biological mother is LaMore Sauls, while his biological father’s identity has not been widely disclosed publicly.
His mother raised him with the help of her parents, Cleo and Gerri Robinson.
Although his family circumstances were different from those of many children, Bijan grew up surrounded by relatives who supported his education, personal development and athletic ambitions.
His grandfather played such an important role that Robinson began calling him “Dad.”
The relationship has remained central to his personal story throughout his football career.
His Mother LaMore Sauls
LaMore Sauls, formerly LaMore Robinson, is Bijan Robinson’s mother and one of the strongest influences in his life.
She became pregnant while attending Mesa Community College in the Phoenix area.
Faced with the responsibilities of raising a child while continuing her education, LaMore returned to Tucson, where her parents could provide additional support.
Her decision allowed Bijan to grow up in a household with several adults actively involved in his upbringing.
LaMore continued pursuing her education while caring for her son.
Her determination to balance motherhood with personal responsibilities became an important example for Bijan as he grew older.
Why She Named Him Bijan
One of the most unusual details about Robinson’s childhood concerns the origin of his first name.
LaMore chose the name Bijan after encountering a fragrance associated with the designer Bijan.
The name has Persian origins and is commonly associated with the meaning “hero.”
According to family accounts, Robinson experienced serious medical difficulties shortly after his birth.
His recovery made the meaning of the name especially significant to his mother.
The experience became part of the family’s story about his arrival and the hopes they held for his future.
Years later, the name became familiar to college football supporters and NFL fans across the country.
His Biological Father
Bijan Robinson’s biological father was not an active presence during his upbringing.
The running back has not made his father’s identity a major part of his public biography.
Instead, he has consistently highlighted the relatives who raised him and helped shape his character.
His grandfather Cleo assumed many of the responsibilities normally associated with a father.
Robinson’s family story therefore focuses less on his absent biological parent and more on the people who provided daily guidance and stability.
There is no reliable public information establishing additional details about his biological father’s current circumstances.
Grandfather Cleo Robinson
Cleo Robinson is Bijan’s maternal grandfather and the man he considers his father figure.
Cleo has an extensive background in football, having previously played as an all-state linebacker.
He later became involved in college football officiating, working as a referee and instant replay official in the Pac-12 conference.
His understanding of the game gave Bijan access to valuable football knowledge from an early age.
However, Cleo’s influence extended beyond athletic training.
He emphasised discipline, humility, accountability and respect for others.
Bijan has repeatedly credited his grandfather with helping him develop the mindset necessary to succeed in competitive sports.
Why He Calls Cleo Dad
Bijan Robinson calls his grandfather Cleo “Dad” because Cleo performed the role of a father throughout his childhood.
When LaMore eventually married and established a separate household, Bijan reportedly chose to continue living with his grandparents.
The decision reflected the close relationship he had developed with Cleo and Gerri.
Cleo remained involved in his everyday routine, providing guidance during school, football practice and important personal decisions.
For Robinson, their relationship was never limited to football.
His grandfather became a source of emotional support and an example of the values he wanted to carry into adulthood.
Grandmother Gerri Robinson
Gerri Robinson is Bijan’s maternal grandmother and another central figure in his upbringing.
She helped provide a stable home environment while LaMore balanced motherhood with her education and other responsibilities.
Gerri has been described as a steady source of encouragement throughout Bijan’s childhood and football career.
Her influence has continued even after his transition to professional sports.
Family accounts have highlighted her involvement in prayers and moments of encouragement before important games.
While Cleo provided extensive football guidance, Gerri contributed emotional support and a strong sense of family connection.
Together, the grandparents created an environment that helped Robinson develop confidence and stability.
His Stepfather
LaMore later married LaMont Sauls, who became Bijan Robinson’s stepfather.
Their marriage expanded Bijan’s family circle, although his strongest paternal bond remained with his grandfather Cleo.
Public information about LaMont’s professional background and relationship with Bijan is comparatively limited.
Robinson has generally focused his public comments on the collective support he received from his mother and grandparents.
His family structure demonstrates how several relatives contributed to his upbringing in different ways.
Football in His Family
Athletic talent was already part of the Robinson family’s history before Bijan became a nationally recognised player.
His great-uncle Paul Robinson played professional football in the AFL and NFL, including time with the Cincinnati Bengals and Houston Oilers.
Paul’s professional career provided another connection between the family and high-level American football.
Meanwhile, Cleo’s background as a player and official gave Bijan direct exposure to the sport’s technical and competitive demands.
These family connections helped make football a familiar part of his childhood.
However, Robinson’s success ultimately depended on his own dedication, training and performances.
His Aunt Cleyrissa
Cleyrissa Robinson, Bijan’s aunt, has also been involved in supporting his professional career and business activities.
Her role reportedly includes helping with brand relationships and commercial opportunities.
As Robinson became more successful, his responsibilities expanded beyond football.
Professional athletes frequently manage endorsement agreements, sponsorships and business commitments alongside their sporting careers.
Having trusted relatives involved in these activities has allowed Robinson to maintain a connection between his professional success and the family that supported him from childhood.
His Rise to the NFL
Bijan Robinson was born on January 30, 2002, in Tucson, Arizona.
He attended Salpointe Catholic High School, where he developed into one of the country’s most highly regarded running back prospects.
His outstanding performances earned him an opportunity to play college football at the University of Texas.
During his time with the Longhorns, Robinson established himself as an exceptional offensive player.
He won the 2022 Doak Walker Award, recognising him as the nation’s leading college running back.
The Atlanta Falcons selected him eighth overall in the 2023 NFL Draft, completing his transition from college standout to professional football player.
His draft selection was also a major achievement for the family members who had supported his ambitions.
Family Life in 2026
As of November 2026, Bijan Robinson continues to represent the Atlanta Falcons while maintaining close relationships with his family.
His mother and grandparents remain important figures in his personal history.
Although his professional responsibilities involve extensive training, travel and competition, Robinson has continued to acknowledge the people who helped him reach the NFL.
His upbringing in Tucson remains an essential part of his identity.
The lessons taught by Cleo, Gerri and LaMore continue to influence how he approaches football and life outside the sport.
Final Thoughts
Bijan Robinson’s mother is LaMore Sauls, and his primary father figure is his maternal grandfather, Cleo Robinson.
His grandmother, Gerri Robinson, also played a major role in raising him, while his stepfather is LaMont Sauls.
Although his biological father was not involved in his upbringing, Robinson grew up with strong family support in Tucson, Arizona.
From his grandfather’s football guidance to his mother’s determination and his grandmother’s encouragement, Bijan Robinson’s parents and grandparents helped establish the foundation for his successful NFL career.
