BEREA, Ohio — Dorian Thompson-Robinson is determined not just to be a temporary solution for the Cleveland Browns’ ongoing quarterback dilemma, but rather to establish himself as a long-term answer. As he prepares to start against the Cincinnati Bengals this week, Thompson-Robinson views the upcoming three games as a crucial opportunity to make his case for being the team’s quarterback not only for 2025 but for the future as well.

Thompson-Robinson acknowledged his mindset regarding this opportunity, saying, “Oh, yeah. Oh, yeah,” referring to his outlook as an audition. He is eager to seize this moment and lead the team to victory. The second-year quarterback from UCLA will be stepping in for Jameis Winston, who struggled with turnovers, throwing eight interceptions in his last three games and ultimately being benched by head coach Kevin Stefanski. Winston managed to enhance the Browns’ offensive performance during his previous seven starts but ultimately couldn’t secure his position after a few mistakes.

While Stefanski has indicated that he is taking a week-to-week approach with his starting quarterback, Thompson-Robinson is committed to treating this role as if it were permanent. “I’m focusing on the Bengals,” he noted, asserting his commitment to dissecting the opponent’s defensive schemes rather than looking at any potential future implications.

Last season, Thompson-Robinson started three games as a rookie, earning a 1-2 record. His debut came unexpectedly when he was thrust into action due to Deshaun Watson’s last-minute injury. However, Thompson-Robinson’s performances improved with more practice time with the starting unit, notably leading the Browns on a crucial game-winning drive against the Pittsburgh Steelers. Now, he is eager to build on that experience as he steps into a more significant role.

Stefanski has praised Thompson-Robinson’s growth during his second season, highlighting his improved preparation and ability to adapt to the game’s complexities. “He’s really taken to the preparation part of this really well,” Stefanski remarked, emphasizing how Thompson-Robinson has become more adept at managing the nuances of the quarterback position.

Thompson-Robinson understands the unpredictable nature of the NFL and continues to work hard to earn his spot. After winning against the Steelers, he experienced a setback when a concussion sidelined him in a game against Denver, leading the team to sign Joe Flacco, who helped them reach the playoffs. This time around, he intends to approach the opportunity with complete focus and determination.

“Ball security is job security,” Thompson-Robinson emphasized, recognizing that every play holds weight in his journey to solidify his status as a starter. This understanding is especially important following Winston’s troubled stint, where he threw for impressive yardage but also suffered from critical turnovers.

Winston, now in a backup position, has taken the demotion in stride but expressed disappointment. “Do I like it? Of course not,” he stated, acknowledging his belief that he belongs as a starter in the league while also understanding the need to produce results.

NOTES: Coach Stefanski indicated that kicker Dustin Hopkins will return to the lineup after missing time due to a slump, having missed six of nine field goals. Additionally, Myles Garrett practiced without apparent issues following an eye injury sustained against Kansas City. The team will be without tight end David Njoku (hamstring), cornerback Martin Emerson Jr. (concussion), and defensive tackle Shelby Harris (elbow), while wide receiver Cedric Tillman remains out as he has not cleared concussion protocols.