When the Lions drafted Hendon Hooker in the third round of the 2023 NFL Draft, it raised questions about their long-term quarterback plans. At the time, Jared Goff was still viewed as a short-term option, acquired mostly as a financial asset in the Matthew Stafford trade. Hooker was seen by some as a potential successor, someone who could be developed behind Goff and eventually take over as the starter.
Fast forward to 2024, and the narrative had shifted. Goff had elevated his game to a new level, solidifying his place as the leader of the team. Hooker, meanwhile, stayed in the background. The decision to bring in Teddy Bridgewater for the playoffs despite his year-long absence from football signaled a lack of confidence in Hooker’s readiness to be even a backup in high-stakes situations.
Hendon Hooker (NFL)Preseason Debut Offers Hendon Hooker His Most Meaningful NFL Opportunity So Far
Hooker’s role has remained minimal, with only three appearances and nine pass attempts across two seasons. There was no trade buzz around him after the 2024 campaign, suggesting that neither the Lions nor other teams see him as a top-tier prospect at the moment. His development has mostly taken place behind closed doors, away from the spotlight.
That changes tonight as the Lions face the Chargers in the preseason opener. Whether or not he starts, Hooker is expected to get more playing time than ever before. It’s a key opportunity to show what he can do with real snaps on a national stage. While one game won’t define his future, it could begin to reshape the conversation about whether he’s destined to start in the NFL or remain a career backup.
