In an unprecedented quarterback-for-quarterback deal, the Cleveland Browns have traded for former first-round pick Kenny Pickett. The deal sends former Steeler Pickett to Cleveland and Dorian Thompson-Robinson to the Super Bowl champion Eagles. The two clubs are seeking quarterback depth in different ways, but heading into 2025-26 neither man’s long-term status in his new city is fully known.
Trade Details
The Cleveland Browns and Philadelphia Eagles have agreed on a quarterback trade bringing Pickett back to the AFC North. The Eagles will receive Dorian Thompson-Robinson and a 2025 fifth-round draft pick for Pickett. The trade is a rare mid-offseason quarterback trade between two clubs looking to solidify their backup situations and create competition.
Pickett, a first-round pick by the Pittsburgh Steelers in 2022, played for Philadelphia last season as Jalen Hurts’ backup. In five games, one of them being a start, he completed 60% of his passes for 291 yards, 2 touchdowns, and an interception. Even though he was never expected to usurp Hurts’ starting position, his time in Philadelphia was fleeting, and the Eagles chose to release him rather than keep him as their lead backup.
For the Eagles, adding Thompson-Robinson provides a younger, more athletic quarterback to serve as Hurts’ backup. The 25-year-old quarterback was drafted in the fifth round in 2023 and has appeared in 15 games with five starts in his career. Although his passing numbers—52.6% completion percentage for 880 yards, 1 touchdown, and 10 interceptions—are not encouraging, his ability to make plays with his legs (187 rushing yards) makes him an intriguing developmental prospect.
Quarterbacks In New Places
Pickett steps into a Browns quarterback room in which he is the probable starter to begin the 2025 season. With Deshaun Watson still rehabbing from injury, Pickett might get on the field right away and have an opportunity to become Cleveland’s best bet at quarterback. The Browns are not likely to pick up Pickett’s fifth-year option, so 2025 is a prove-it season for the young quarterback.
Thompson-Robinson, meanwhile, comes into Philadelphia as a possible backup. He is not a lock for the QB2 role, however, with Tanner McKee appearing to have the inside track on the position. While he did not play well, Thompson-Robinson’s athleticism and ceiling were enticing for the Eagles, who can use him as a developmental asset. He will have to do a better job in camp to win the backup role.
Final Thoughts
This trade serves as a clean slate for the two QBs as they embark on new pursuits with different expectation levels. The Browns acquired an early-round selection from the past in Pickett who will look to prove himself a future long-term starter in the ultra-competitive AFC North. Competing against his old team twice a year could inspire an interesting second wind to his career.
The Eagles acquired a productive pick and an athletic, young quarterback in Thompson-Robinson, but will have to compete with McKee for the highest backup role alongside Hurts. Ultimately this trade will be judged by Pickett’s production and Philadelphia’s fifth-round selection. If both teams can build off of their new directions under center, this trade could be a win-win for both organizations.
