Massive Major Boost Packers Could Address ‘Glaring Hole’ in Proposed Trade

As the Green Bay Packers gear up for the 2024 NFL season, the buzz around their roster is largely focused on their potential high-powered offense. With Jordan Love poised to be the starting quarterback, expectations are high. However, as is often the case in the National Football League, the strength of a team is measured not only by its star players but also by how well it can handle adversity, including potential injuries to key positions. One area where the Packers might need to make a strategic move is at the backup quarterback position.

Currently, Love’s primary backup is 26-year-old Sean Clifford. Clifford’s performance in the preseason has raised some concerns. Through two games, he has completed just 16 of 29 passes for 154 yards, with no touchdowns and an interception. These statistics paint a picture of a player who has struggled to make an impact when given the opportunity. This shakiness is particularly troubling given the unpredictability of an NFL season, where injuries and unforeseen circumstances can quickly elevate a backup quarterback into a crucial role.

With Clifford’s underwhelming preseason showing, it’s natural to question whether the Packers should seek a more reliable backup quarterback. A proposed trade involving the Cleveland Browns could be an intriguing solution to this issue. According to Christopher Kline of FanSided, the Packers might benefit from acquiring Browns backup quarterback Dorian Thompson-Robinson in exchange for a 2025 fifth-round pick, with the Browns also sending a 2025 sixth-round pick to Green Bay.

Dorian Thompson-Robinson, known as DTR, is a 24-year-old quarterback who has shown flashes of promise despite a rocky start to his NFL career. Last season, he was thrust into action when Browns starter Deshaun Watson went down with a shoulder injury that ultimately ended his season. Thompson-Robinson started three games for the Browns, finishing with a 1-2 record. His performance was a mixed bag; he threw for 440 yards on 60 attempts, with one touchdown and four interceptions.

While these numbers might not immediately stand out, Thompson-Robinson’s potential as a dual-threat quarterback is where the intrigue lies. In his limited playing time, he demonstrated mobility that could be valuable for a team like the Packers. He scrambled 14 times for 65 yards last season, including four first-down conversions. This athleticism and dual-threat capability contrast sharply with Clifford’s performance and experience.

The argument for acquiring Thompson-Robinson over Clifford is rooted in potential and upside. At 24, Thompson-Robinson is younger and more athletic than Clifford, who is two years older and has yet to see any regular-season action. While Thompson-Robinson’s rookie season wasn’t stellar, his ability to make plays with both his arm and legs offers a level of versatility that could be advantageous for the Packers. In a high-pressure situation, having a backup with dual-threat capabilities might provide the team with a better chance of maintaining their performance levels if Love were to miss time.

From a strategic standpoint, this trade proposal addresses what could be seen as a “glaring hole” in the Packers’ roster. Backup quarterbacks are often overlooked, but their role can be critical, particularly if the starter goes down. The ability of a backup to step in and perform effectively can make the difference between a team staying in playoff contention or falling out of the race entirely. With the Packers potentially having high playoff aspirations, ensuring they have a capable and versatile backup quarterback could be crucial.

It’s also worth considering the impact this trade might have on the Packers’ future draft assets. By sending a 2025 fifth-round pick and receiving both Thompson-Robinson and a 2025 sixth-round pick, the Packers would essentially be trading up in the quarterback position while maintaining their draft capital in the upcoming drafts. This could be a wise move, given the unpredictable nature of draft prospects and the immediate need for a more reliable backup.

Of course, whether Thompson-Robinson would indeed be the right fit for the Packers remains to be seen. His performance in Cleveland was not without its challenges, and his future in the NFL is still being shaped. However, his potential and the opportunity to develop under the guidance of Green Bay’s coaching staff could make this a mutually beneficial arrangement. If Thompson-Robinson can build on his experiences and adapt to Green Bay’s system, he could become a valuable asset for the team.

The Packers’ decision to explore this trade could also signal their broader strategy and outlook for the season. By actively seeking to improve their backup quarterback situation, they demonstrate a proactive approach to roster management. This willingness to address potential weaknesses before they become significant issues is a hallmark of successful teams.

Moreover, Green Bay’s offensive strategy under Jordan Love is likely to be a focal point this season. If the team is expecting Love to lead a high-powered offense, it’s reasonable to assume that they would want to ensure that their backup quarterback situation is robust enough to handle any potential disruptions. The addition of a dual-threat quarterback like Thompson-Robinson could complement the offensive scheme and provide additional options in case of an emergency.

As the season approaches, the Packers will need to weigh their options carefully. The trade market can be unpredictable, and finding the right fit for their needs will be essential. If they decide to pursue a trade for Dorian Thompson-Robinson or another quarterback, it will be crucial for them to assess not only the immediate benefits but also the long-term implications for their roster.

However, the Green Bay Packers have the potential to field a high-powered offense in 2024, but the strength of their team will depend on how well they address their potential weaknesses. The proposed trade with the Cleveland Browns for Dorian Thompson-Robinson could be a strategic move to strengthen their backup quarterback situation. With Thompson-Robinson’s dual-threat capabilities and potential upside, he might provide a more reliable option than the current backup, Sean Clifford. As the Packers continue to prepare for the season, making a move to secure a capable backup quarterback could be pivotal in their quest for success. Whether or not this trade comes to fruition, the Packers’ proactive approach to addressing their roster needs will be a key factor in their performance throughout the 2024 NFL season.