Browns: Dorian Thompson-Robinson shines in Hall of Fame game win over Jets
It's just preseason, but it is still an opportunity for those playing to leave their mark on the Cleveland Browns organization in a game that will have a winner and a loser. And in the Browns' 21-16 victory over the New York Jets, the team's fifth-round rookie, Dorian Thompson-Robinson, put Kellen Mond on notice for the […]
It's just preseason, but it is still an opportunity for those playing to leave their mark on the Cleveland Browns organization in a game that will have a winner and a loser.
And in the Browns' 21-16 victory over the New York Jets, the team's fifth-round rookie, Dorian Thompson-Robinson, put Kellen Mond on notice for the third most likely final quarterback slot.
"He made some nice plays," Browns head coach Kevin Stefanski said of Thompson-Robinson. "He made some plays with his feet. I felt the route on the touchdown was outstanding. Good read, good throw, had some really good moments."
In the game, Thompson-Robinson displayed a versatile skill set. He hurt the Jets' defense from the pocket and showcased the mobility that made him so difficult to stop in his five seasons at UCLA.
Thompson-Robinson finished 8-of-11 passing for 82 yards with a touchdown pass. The rookie quarterback didn't take a sack and finished with a 124.1 passer rating. He also led two scoring drives and did all the little things, like throwing a block when quarterbacks typically don't to ensure the team found success on the field.
"I'm super excited just to have this opportunity," the rookie told NFL Network's Steve Wyche after the game. "Lord knows I worked my butt off to get here, as well as the rest of the guys that I got drafted with. So, I'm just happy to be out there — be an asset to them — making sure I'm getting guys in the right spots and doing everything I can to lead the team well also."
While Thompson-Robinson shined, focusing on the things he did well, Mond looked average.
Mond was 13-of-19 passing for 92 yards with a touchdown and an interception in the first half. He hit John Kelly Jr. for a seven-yard score.
Stefanski detailed coming into the game that it would be an opportunity for each quarterback to show what they are capable of within the offense. Thompson-Robinson took that opportunity and ran with it. Mond, on the other hand, reminded everyone why he saw such limited action throughout his NFL career so far.
It is hard to see Cleveland carrying more than three quarterbacks heading into the regular season. And if Thompson-Robinson is already looking comfortable in the offense, Mond may be on the outside looking in come late into training camp.
"I hope it did a lot for me," Thompson-Robinson said regarding cementing his spot on the Browns roster. "I'm hoping for more to come in the future for sure."
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Feature image via Ken Blaze-USA TODAY Sports.
