Dorian Thompson-Robinson #17 of the Cleveland Browns
The Green Bay Packers are at a crossroads as they prepare for Week 2 against the Indianapolis Colts. With Jordan Love nursing an injury, the Packers are scrambling to add depth to their quarterback room. They have several options, but they must act quickly if they want to secure the right fit ahead of Sunday’s game.
One free-agent option is veteran Ryan Tannehill, a seasoned starter who played alongside current Green Bay backup Malik Willis during their time with the Tennessee Titans. Tannehill’s experience could provide the Packers with a stable option should Love miss multiple games.
However, if the Packers believe Love’s injury is short-term, they may prefer to look for a younger and more dynamic option to hold the fort. Cleveland Browns quarterback Dorian Thompson-Robinson fits that bill. The 2023 fifth-round pick shined during the preseason, completing 38-of-55 passes for 375 yards, one touchdown, and one interception across three games. Thompson-Robinson beat out 2022 Pro Bowler Tyler Huntley to solidify his place as Cleveland’s third-string quarterback behind starter Deshaun Watson and backup Jameis Winston.
Dorian Thompson-Robinson’s Roller Coaster Rookie Year
Thompson-Robinson showed promise during his rookie campaign in Cleveland, gaining significant regular-season experience. The young quarterback appeared in eight games and started three, posting a 1-2 record. While his stats weren’t stellar — completing just 53.6% of his passes for 440 yards, one touchdown, and four interceptions — Thompson-Robinson demonstrated resilience and versatility, adding 65 rushing yards on 14 carries.
Unfortunately, his rookie year was cut short due to a hip injury sustained during Cleveland’s Week 16 win over the Houston Texans on Christmas Eve. Earlier in the season, Thompson-Robinson also suffered a concussion during a loss to the Denver Broncos.
Despite his early struggles, Thompson-Robinson returned strong in the offseason, putting together another standout preseason performance. His development pushed the Browns to trade veteran Josh Dobbs to the Arizona Cardinals, solidifying Thompson-Robinson’s role on the roster for the 2024 season.
Should the Packers Make a Move?
The Packers are in a tough spot. Love’s injury could be minor, but if there’s any uncertainty surrounding his health, Green Bay may need to make a move. Thompson-Robinson is a tempting option, offering a mix of youth, mobility, and arm talent that could serve the Packers well in both the short and long term.
However, Cleveland isn’t likely to let him go without a good reason. The Browns already explored trades for Thompson-Robinson earlier this preseason, according to Zac Jackson of The Athletic. But with Watson’s injury history and the release of Tyler Huntley, Cleveland may be hesitant to part with their young quarterback unless they receive a meaningful offer in return.
If Green Bay is willing to offer a significant 2025 draft pick, the Browns might consider making a deal. Given the Packers’ urgency, this trade could be a win-win scenario. Thompson-Robinson would get an opportunity for more playing time, while the Packers would gain a promising insurance policy as they weather Love’s absence.
Time is of the Essence
With Week 2 fast approaching, the Packers must decide soon. Will they opt for the veteran experience of Tannehill or the youthful upside of Thompson-Robinson? Regardless of the choice, Green Bay’s front office is on the clock. The right decision could stabilize their quarterback situation, while the wrong one might leave them vulnerable as they look to build on a promising start to the season.
