Proposed Packers trade target would solve backup quarterback concerns

The Green Bay Packers' backup quarterback might not currently be on the roster.

After an embarrassing preseason performance against the Denver Broncos last week, the Packers must consider their options at backup quarterback. Sean Clifford and Michael Pratt struggled as Denver shut out Green Bay's offense.

The Packers could sign a free agent like Ryan Tannehill, but another option is to make a trade with a team with good quarterback depth.

One team to watch closely is the Cleveland Browns.

Browns quarterback Dorian Thompson-Robinson is a possible Packers trade target

With Deshaun Watson and Jameis Winston at the top of the Browns' quarterback depth chart, The Athletic's Zac Jackson reported that they have had discussions about trading second-year Dorian Thompson-Robinson.

The Packers would make sense as a potential landing spot for the former fifth-round pick. Justin Melo of The Draft Network named three teams that should trade for Thompson-Robinson. At the top of the list? Green Bay.

"The Green Bay Packers arguably possess the worst backup situation in the NFL," writes Melo. "Clifford and Pratt are not playing like league-average backup quarterbacks. Trading for Thompson-Robinson would upgrade LaFleur's options behind Love."

The Packers have already watched Thompson-Robinson play in the preseason. He put in an impressive performance against Jeff Hafley's defense in the opening game, completing 14 of 18 passes for 134 yards.

He is a second-year quarterback with the potential to become a quality backup in the NFL, especially in Matt LaFleur's offense. In his final two seasons at UCLA, Thompson-Robinson threw for 5,578 yards, 48 touchdowns, and 16 interceptions, and he also rushed for 1,254 yards and 21 touchdowns.

The Browns may not have room to keep him on their 53-man roster, but Thompson-Robinson would give the Packers a potential upgrade at the backup quarterback position.

It's hard to argue with Melo's points about Green Bay's backups.

Pratt has shown potential throughout the summer, but he isn't ready for the No. 2 job. The best-case scenario is the Packers sneaking him onto their practice squad, but they may need to make room for three quarterbacks on the 53-man roster. However, entering the season with Pratt as the backup would be a huge roll of the dice.

Clifford has struggled at training camp and the preseason. He has thrown far too many interceptions, including one against Denver.

If Thompson-Robinson is available, the Packers should consider making an offer.

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