D. Thompson-Robinson  |  UCLA 6’2” 203 lbs.  |  11/14/1999 (23)

Dorian Thompson-Robinson was drafted by the Cleveland Browns, becoming the 10th Quarterback and 140th overall player in the 2023 NFL Draft.

COLLEGE PRODUCTION

Dorian Thompson-Robinson (DTR) played for the Bruins for five seasons, finishing with 88 pass TDs and over 10,000 pass yards in his collegiate career. He averaged 214 yards per game (YPG) through the air and a 2.44 touchdown to interception (TD: INT) ratio. While his passing numbers were never awe-inspiring, he put up some elite numbers on the ground. In his final two seasons, DTR totaled over 1,200 rush yards and 21 rush TDs. Thompson-Robinson left UCLA as the all-time leader in total offense (12,536 yards), completions (860), and total touchdowns (116). In addition, he was the #8 QB in the nation in fantasy points for 2022, compiling 350.86 points. 

FILM

DTR appeared to be at his best outside of the pocket at UCLA. He’s an accurate passer on the run and has the speed and elusiveness to grab the first down on the ground. DTR has impressive arm strength and touch and can work through progressions quickly and improvise when needed. His footwork is average at best, and he may need to quicken his release to be effective at the NFL level. He has yet to be overly accurate in throwing the long ball. 

ATHLETIC TESTING

DTR measured 6’2″ and 203 lbs. He has a small frame, creating concern about his ability to handle a 17-game schedule if he finds himself in a starting role at some point. Thompson-Robinson had a 4.56 40-yard dash and a 1.51 10-yard split, both incredible numbers for the QB position. He also excelled in the broad jump, finishing in the 93rd percentile in his class. His vertical, three-cone, and shuttle results were all subpar. DTR showed off his arm strength at the combine, clocking in at 62 mph, which matched the combine record set by Josh Allen in 2018. 

DRAFT ANALYSIS 

Rapid Reaction to Draft Capital: Poor

Rapid Reaction to Landing Spot: Average

Dorian Thompson-Robinson was selected in the fifth round of the NFL draft with the 140th overall pick by the Cleveland Browns. DTR was projected to go in the third round, so this draft capital is pretty disappointing. He will likely be the QB2 on this depth chart, as his current competition is Joshua Dobbs and Kellen Mond. 

FANTASY INSIGHTS

I have Thompson-Robinson ranked as the number six quarterback in this class for projected future Dynasty value. Given his rushing upside, he has a high ceiling but may never get the opportunity to start in the NFL. His Dynasty value is arguably higher than his real-life NFL value.

As mentioned, DTR should have great odds of earning the primary backup role to Deshaun Watson. His main competition on this Cleveland roster is Joshua Dobbs, who has only played eight games in his six-year career. That said, DTR will likely only see the field if Watson misses time due to injury. The $230M contract Deshaun signed is fully guaranteed and is good through 2026. The Browns already have their franchise guy, meaning DTR won’t be competing for a starting spot any time soon. If Thompson-Robinson does manage to see the field at some point, he could be worth starting in fantasy based on his potential to rack up points on the ground. I will be comfortable rolling the dice on DTR if he falls to me in the fourth round of rookie drafts. 

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