Raiders’ Quarterback Dilemma: Can Thompson-Robinson Be the Answer?

The Las Vegas Raiders recently found themselves in a precarious situation as backup quarterback Aidan O’Connell suffered a broken wrist during a preseason game against the Arizona Cardinals. With O’Connell sidelined for six to eight weeks, the team’s quarterback depth is suddenly thinner, prompting speculation about potential trades.

The Current State of the QB Position

Following O’Connell’s injury, the Raiders are left with limited options behind starter Geno Smith. Aside from sixth-round draft pick Cam Miller, the roster seems devoid of any reliable alternatives. This has led analysts to suggest the Raiders could look to trade for other quarterbacks to bolster their lineup.

A Surprising Trade Proposal

One name that has emerged is Philadelphia Eagles quarterback Dorian Thompson-Robinson. This suggestion comes from Bleacher Report’s Moe Moton, who noted that Thompson-Robinson played under Raiders offensive coordinator Chip Kelly when they were both at UCLA. The connection could make a trade seem logical on the surface, but does it hold water?

Assessing Thompson-Robinson’s Performance

Dorian Thompson-Robinson, a fifth-round draft pick by the Cleveland Browns in 2023, has had a rocky start in the NFL. During his first two seasons, Thompson-Robinson saw action in 15 games, starting five. Unfortunately, his statistics paint a bleak picture: he managed only one passing touchdown while throwing ten interceptions and completing just 52.6% of his passes.

In his brief stint with the Browns, Thompson-Robinson continued to struggle, tossing six interceptions in two starts during the 2024 season without a single touchdown to his name. His inability to efficiently manage the game raises significant concerns about his viability as a starting or even backup quarterback in the league.

The Dual-Threat Potential

At UCLA, Thompson-Robinson displayed the kind of dual-threat capability that made him an exciting prospect. Under Chip Kelly’s offense, he showcased his athleticism and play-making ability, often using his legs effectively in pivotal moments. However, that collegiate success has not translated adequately to the professional stage, where the level of competition is heightened.

The Feasibility of a Trade

Bringing in a player like Thompson-Robinson is fraught with risks. Given his demonstrable struggles in the league, one cannot help but question whether the Raiders should pursue alternative options. Although the quarterback market may appear limited, teams often make unexpected trades, especially as the regular season looms closer.

Alternative Options

In the current landscape of the NFL, several experienced quarterbacks could potentially offer better support than Thompson-Robinson. The Raiders may find more fruitful pursuits by exploring other teams’ rosters, especially those looking to offload backup quarterbacks or those who aren’t quite fitting within their current schemes.

Looking Ahead

While Thompson-Robinson may seem like an attractive option due to his past connections and potential upside, the Raiders have to weigh his less-than-stellar records against the pressing needs of the team. As they navigate through this challenging phase, focused scouting and astute decision-making will be crucial.

For more updates and detailed analysis on the Raiders and the NFL landscape, keep an eye on Newsweek Sports as the season unfolds.