Former UCLA Quarterback Earns Top Marks in Preseason Performance

Not bad for what many considered a project.

In an extended run with his new NFL team, one former Bruin great impressed many coaches, front office personnel, and fans on the field by having a terrific preseason showing. 

UCLA's former signal caller Dorian Thompson-Robinson showcased his abundant skill set in his audition for the Cleveland Browns backup QB job, one that he won handily with a stellar month of play. 

Dorian Thompson-Robinson, Cleveland Browns: A

One of the league's top preseason standouts, Dorian Thompson-Robinson showed off his strong arm and intriguing mobility. While completing 37 of his 58 attempts, he collected 440 yards and two scores with no interceptions. DTR added 69 rushing yards on 14 carries. He won the backup job over Dobbs, who the Browns traded to Arizona.

via David Kenyon, Bleacher Report

Waiving Kellen Mond, in addition to trading away Dobbs as the other quarterbacks on the roster behind Deshaun Watson, it was Thompson-Robinson who beat his veteran counterparts to have that privilege. 

Staying turnover-free was a key for the dual threat as he showed his passing prowess and rushing ability on a consistent basis in his four preseason games. 

Putting the league on notice from the outset of the preseason, DTR's first impression could not have been better. 

Against the Jets in the Hall of Fame Game, Thompson Robinson led two touchdown drives with his rushing ability and blocking for the first and with his arm on the second as the Browns came back in the game to beat New York. 

Outplaying Mond for the presumed no. 3 QB spot in Cleveland, the Browns front office took it one step further by trading away Dobbs to Arizona, entrusting DTR with their offense should Watson be injured or not play up to standards. 

It's a huge ask, but one that's certainly warranted given just how well the former Bruin has done with his NFL opportunity despite some early doubters.