The Cleveland Browns weren’t on the clock in the 2023 NFL Draft until the third round because of previous trades that they made. Despite that, they have done a very good job of addressing needs across the roster.
Cleveland has addressed their needs along the defensive line, selecting Baylor defensive tackle Siaka Ika with a compensatory pick in the third round and Missouri defensive end Isaiah McGuire in the fourth round with a pick acquired from the Minnesota Vikings.
While their fifth-round pick didn’t come at a position of need, it was a selection that was lauded by draft analysts. With the sixth pick of the fifth round, No. 140 overall via the Los Angeles Rams, the Browns selected UCLA quarterback Dorian Thompson-Robinson.
Thompson-Robinson isn’t the biggest quarterback, standing 6’2” and weighing 203 pounds, but he has a strong arm that enables him to push the ball down the field and fit into some tight windows. He has some rushing ability as well, but will likely be limited in that regard in the NFL to avoid taking too many hits given his slight frame.
Chris Trapasso of CBS Sports thought very highly of the Thompson-Robinson selection by the Browns. He gave the pick an A- grade and provided some positive feedback about his skills and fit with the team.
“Thompson-Robinson gets more out of his talent than most prospects in this class. Gamer. Does anything to win. Talented too in a smaller frame. Won’t be able to run as much in the NFL. But possesses a solid arm and reads coverage well. Smart choice here. Can be a spot starter.”
We have seen just how important the backup quarterback position is in the NFL last year. The San Francisco 49ers made it to the NFC Championship game despite Trey Lance and Jimmy Garoppolo both suffering season-ending injuries. The Miami Dolphins weren’t as lucky with their strong season derailed by the head injuries suffered by Tua Tagovailoa.
This is a good selection by the Browns to select a quarterback that fits in their system. Thompson-Robinson has the skill set to run the same sort of offense that the Browns do with their starter, Deshaun Watson. While not on Watson’s level, not having to adjust game plans will make for a smooth transition would Thompson-Robinson be called upon to play.
