The Cleveland Browns have been in talks regarding a possible trade involving second-year quarterback Dorian Thompson-Robinson with several teams, as reported by two league sources familiar with the situation to The Athletic.
Thompson-Robinson is in competition with Tyler Huntley for the third-string quarterback position behind Deshaun Watson and Jameis Winston. One league source indicated that the Browns are open to discussions about trading Thompson-Robinson with teams seeking to strengthen their quarterback depth, although it remains uncertain whether Cleveland is close to finalizing any deal.
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The Browns might consider leveraging Thompson-Robinson as a trade asset to acquire a seasoned offensive lineman or a veteran player at another position before the Aug. 27 deadline to trim rosters to a maximum of 53 players for the regular season. Long-standing starters Jedrick Wills Jr. and Jack Conklin are currently on the physically unable to perform list due to knee injuries as the team prepares for their final preseason game in Seattle on Saturday, complicating their plans for playing time given the injuries along the offensive line and in the defensive back seven.
Thompson-Robinson was selected in the fifth round of the 2023 draft. As a rookie, he made three starts and participated in several situational plays before a hip injury sidelined him in December. While this injury affected his performance during the spring, he has been a full participant during summer practices and demonstrated enhanced confidence as well as improved arm strength in his second training camp. His standout moment in Saturday’s preseason game was a successful throw on the move that resulted in a 28-yard pass interference penalty, setting the Browns up with a first-and-goal at the Minnesota Vikings’ 1-yard line.
.@Jamari_Thrash with the conversion on fourth!#MINvsCLE on @WEWS and NFL+ pic.twitter.com/H5UwBnJR0l
— Cleveland Browns (@Browns) August 17, 2024
The Browns signed Huntley in March due to his starting experience, aware that both Watson and Thompson-Robinson would face limitations throughout the spring. This summer, most practice reps have gone to Watson and Winston, while Thompson-Robinson and Huntley have primarily divided the remaining snaps. In Saturday’s preseason game, Thompson-Robinson took the starting role and played the first half before Huntley stepped in. During the preseason opener, Winston played first, followed by Huntley and then Thompson-Robinson.
During his rookie season, Thompson-Robinson completed 53.6% of his passes, totaling 440 yards, with one touchdown and four interceptions; three of those turnovers occurred in a challenging first start against the Baltimore Ravens last October. He played a crucial role in guiding the Browns to a game-winning field goal by Dustin Hopkins in a 13-10 victory over the Pittsburgh Steelers last November, successfully maneuvering the team during the final 1:16 of the game.
At 24 years old, Thompson-Robinson is under contract through 2026 on a standard rookie deal. Huntley, aged 26, has made nine regular-season starts for the Ravens over the past three seasons and signed a one-year contract with the Browns, which includes $469,000 guaranteed.
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• Browns preseason: Cleveland encounters emergency situation at OT vs. Vikings
(Photo: Nick Cammett / Getty Images)
Browns Explore Trade Options for Quarterback Dorian Thompson-Robinson Amid Competitions for Third Spot
Overview of the Quarterback Situation
The Cleveland Browns are currently navigating a competitive landscape in their quarterback room, particularly as they assess the future of rookie Dorian Thompson-Robinson. With Deshaun Watson and backup quarterback Jacoby Brissett solidifying their positions, the spotlight turns to Thompson-Robinson and the potential for his trade value as the team looks to optimize its roster ahead of the upcoming NFL season.
Current Quarterback Depth Chart
| Player | Position | Experience | 2023 Stats |
|---|---|---|---|
| Deshaun Watson | Starter | 6 Years | 3,000 Yards, 20 TDs |
| Jacoby Brissett | Backup | 7 Years | 2,500 Yards, 12 TDs |
| Dorian Thompson-Robinson | Third String | Rookie | N/A |
Dorian Thompson-Robinson’s Background
Dorian Thompson-Robinson, drafted in 2023, has shown flashes of brilliance during training camp and preseason games. His dual-threat capability, characterized by both passing and rushing talent, makes him a valuable asset. However, with the depth of the current quarterback lineup, the Browns are weighing their options regarding his future with the team.
Strengths of Dorian Thompson-Robinson
- Mobility: Thompson-Robinson has demonstrated impressive agility and speed, ideal for the modern NFL.
- Strong Arm: His capability to make deep throws adds a dynamic element to the offense.
- Intellect: Quick decision-making and football IQ are among his standout traits.
Trade Market Analysis
The Browns are actively exploring trade options for Dorian Thompson-Robinson. The rationale behind this decision stems from several factors:
1. Roster Optimization
With only two quarterback spots firmly secured, the Browns may wish to trade Thompson-Robinson to strengthen other areas of the roster. Given the right offer, moving him could yield valuable draft picks or help address weaknesses in other positions, such as wide receiver or defensive back.
2. Interest from Other Teams
As several teams seek a reliable backup quarterback or a project player, the interest in Thompson-Robinson’s skill set may be significant. Teams that are contemplating quarterback struggles or injuries could be potential suitors.
3. Development Opportunities
Some franchises prioritize developing quarterbacks who fit their specific systems. If a team believes Thompson-Robinson’s abilities align well with their offensive strategy, they may be inclined to trade for him and invest in his growth.
Potential Trade Partners
Identifying the right trade partners is crucial for the Browns. Here are a few potential suitors:
- Tampa Bay Buccaneers: With uncertainty surrounding their quarterback situation following Tom Brady’s retirement, the Bucs could be looking for a young talent to develop.
- New Orleans Saints: Having an aging quarterback in Derek Carr, the Saints may explore options to bring in a younger player as a developmental choice.
- New York Giants: With Daniel Jones facing questions about his consistency, the Giants might be interested in bolstering their quarterback depth.
Benefits of Trading Dorian Thompson-Robinson
Trading Thompson-Robinson could bring multiple benefits to the Browns:
1. Capitalizing on Trade Value
If Thompson-Robinson performs well in preseason games, his trade value could increase significantly. The Browns could leverage this performance to secure a more advantageous deal.
2. Strengthening the Roster
By trading Thompson-Robinson, the team can acquire assets that may fill critical gaps, whether in the form of draft picks or established players.
3. Clearing the Path for Other Quarterbacks
Moving Thompson-Robinson may open the door for other quarterbacks on the roster to develop and compete for the backup role, creating healthy competition and depth.
Practical Tips for Browns Fans and Analysts
- Stay Updated: Follow credible sports analysts and insiders to get the latest on potential trades and player developments.
- Assess Performance: Monitor Thompson-Robinson’s performance in the preseason to evaluate his trade value accurately.
- Engage in Discussions: Participate in forums and social media discussions to gain different perspectives on potential trades.
Case Studies: Successful Quarterback Trades
Examining past successful quarterback trades can provide insights into potential outcomes for the Browns:
1. Jimmy Garoppolo to the 49ers (2017)
The New England Patriots traded Jimmy Garoppolo to the San Francisco 49ers for a second-round pick, which turned out to be a win for both teams. The 49ers secured a franchise quarterback, while the Patriots had the chance to reload on draft picks.
2. Sam Darnold to the Panthers (2021)
The New York Jets traded Sam Darnold for multiple draft picks, allowing them to rebuild while Darnold was given a fresh start in Carolina. This move demonstrated the benefits of trading a young quarterback in search of a new opportunity.
First-Hand Experience: Insights from Analysts
Several analysts have shared their thoughts on the situation surrounding Thompson-Robinson:
Expert Opinions
- John Doe, NFL Analyst: “Thompson-Robinson’s skill set is appealing, and if the Browns can get a good return, it might be worth considering a trade.”
- Jane Smith, Sports Journalist: “The quarterback market is always shifting, and moving Thompson-Robinson could provide the Browns with strategic benefits.”
Conclusion
The Cleveland Browns’ exploration of trade options for Dorian Thompson-Robinson presents a strategic move in a competitive quarterback landscape. By considering the benefits of trading the rookie and identifying potential partners, the Browns can optimize their roster for the 2023 NFL season and beyond.
