Why QB Dorian Thompson-Robinson Is Perfect Fit for Detroit Lions
Heading into the 2023 season, the Detroit Lions are set at the quarterback position.
Jared Goff proved himself to be reliable in piloting the offense over the final stretch of the season, which cemented his status. Moving forward, the Lions will rely on Goff under center.
However, the team has little depth behind the starter. Backup Nate Sudfeld was brought back on a one-year deal, but Detroit general manager Brad Holmes and company may not be done making moves.
The 2023 NFL Draft offers the team a chance to add depth. While more pressing needs may dominate the early stages of the Lions' draft, quarterback is a position that needs to be addressed.
Among the options expected to be available later in the draft is Dorian Thompson-Robinson. The UCLA product has dual-threat ability, a strong arm and plenty of starting experience.
UCLA quarterback Dorian Thompson-Robinson
Ivan Pierre Aguirre, USA TODAY Sports
Ranking among the best passers in the 2018 recruiting class, he recently wrapped up a five-year career, in which he threw for over 10,000 yards and 88 touchdowns.
Though talented as a passer, he's best served in the quick game. Detroit's scheme could help him with this, as he'd be able to throw quick routes to receivers such as Amon-Ra St. Brown and Jameson Williams.
Thompson-Robinson does have solid arm strength, and succeeds in throwing the ball over the middle, a skill that is tough to come by among the late-round quarterback prospects.
"Thompson-Robinson is capable of driving the football over the middle, possessing solid velocity," reads his scouting report from SI NFL Draft Bible. "He hits open targets that are moving over the middle reliably. Displaying recognition skills when kept clean, he identifies mismatches and gets the ball there quickly. Thompson-Robinson takes his lower half through progressions and sets up to throw in the quick game. He is most comfortable having a built-in check down on plays."
His mobility makes him an intriguing asset, as well. During his time with the Bruins, he ran for 28 touchdowns and 1,826 yards.
Thompson-Robinson also has developed well in each of his five collegiate years. He's coming off a career year with the Bruins, in which he surpassed 3,000 passing yards and set career-high marks in many categories.
He made waves when he led the Bruins to a 6-0 start, which resulted in a 9-4 overall record.
He's not in the top-tier of this year's quarterback crop, due to his arm strength leaving more to be desired and his 6-foot-1 frame.
Additionally, he can be out of control when leaving the pocket and throwing on the move.
"He does not possess the arm talent required to control the ball off balance," an NFL Draft Bible scout penned. "Slightly undersized quarterback with good athleticism who struggles with accuracy. Thompson-Robinson is capable of driving the ball over the middle and identifies mismatches quickly post-snap. When pressured, his play suffers due to below-average poise."
Thompson-Robinson has a high ceiling, thanks to his solid arm and his physical and shifty running style. If everything goes well, he could provide an impact similar to what Jalen Hurts brings to the Philadelphia Eagles.
The positional value of quarterback will likely drive him into the middle rounds of the draft. He's an exciting developmental piece who could make a big impact after demonstrating growth.
