New York Jets and Cleveland Browns rookies impress as new quarterback shines

04 August 2023 , 18:25

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Cleveland Browns quarterback Dorian Thompson-Robinson impressed in the preseason game against the New York Jets (Image: Frank Jansky/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images)

The preseason clash between the New York Jets and the Cleveland Browns on Thursday showcased some outstanding performances from rookie players.

Quarterback Dorian Thompson-Robinson and wide receiver Cedric Tillman stood out for the Browns, while running back Israel Abanikanda and pass-rusher Will McDonald made an impact for the Jets.

Thompson-Robinson, the fifth-round pick for the Browns, displayed excellent decision-making skills during a phenomenal second-half drive. He showed a good balance between passing and scrambling, making quick decisions on when to throw and when to run, reports the Express US.

Thompson-Robinson's most impressive moment came when he delivered a thundering downfield block to free Demetric Felton Jr. for a touchdown. The UCLA product completed 8 of 11 passes for 82 yards and a touchdown, outplaying Kellen Mond, who started the first half, while Thompson-Robinson's calmness in the pocket was particularly noteworthy for a rookie quarterback.

Tillman, despite sustaining an ankle injury in college, had a strong showing for the Browns. He caught the game's first pass for a first down and made another impressive catch for 20 yards.

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Tillman's size and ability make him a valuable asset to the Browns' receiving corps. With his performance in the preseason game, Tillman has the opportunity to earn playing time in different offensive sets.

For the Jets, Abanikanda had a notable performance as a running back. He carried the ball eight times in the first half, gaining 26 rushing yards and scoring a touchdown.

Abanikanda also caught a five-yard pass, showcasing his versatility. His scoring run was particularly impressive, reaching a speed of 19 mph before even hitting the line of scrimmage.

Running back Israel Abanikanda also impressed in the preseason clash (Rich Schultz/Getty Images)

While the potential signing of ex-Minnesota Vikings running back Dalvin Cook could affect Abanikanda's playing time, he has the chance to make an immediate impact as a late-round rookie during the preseason. Another standout rookie for the Jets was pass-rusher McDonald.

He made three tackles in the game and delivered a brutal hit on Kellen Mond after the offensive line failed to account for him. McDonald's performance level has caught the attention of the coaching staff all summer.

Jets head coach Robert Saleh recently said: "He's got all the freakish ability. He can win with speed and can counter inside, but until you get those tackles playing a little bit more heavy-footed because they're afraid of your power and all that stuff won't matter, so he's learning that aspect of it, but I'm excited."

In addition to these top performances, another rookie also made a noteworthy contribution for the Jets. Second-round center Joe Tippmann showed promise with his clean snaps and ability to handle pressure up the middle.

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Shane Ireland