Report: Lions to cut QB Hendon Hooker

According to NFL insider Jordan Schultz, the Detroit Lions are releasing quarterback Hendon Hooker. A former draft pick of the franchise, Detroit is putting Hooker back on the open market. Hooker will now have a fresh opportunity to get into the right situation to continue his career.

Following a great season for Tennessee in 2023, Hooker was drafted in the third round by the Lions at No. 68 overall. Very little experience took place as a rookie, playing in just three games. Hooker did complete six of his nine throws, though — three of which were converted for first downs. You can add a total of 62 yards to his stat sheet.

This leaves the Lions with two quarterbacks moving forward. Jared Goff has become a fan favorite in Detroit after being traded for. Kyle Allen appears to be the backup for the 2025 season, preparing to be out there in case something happens to Goff. But since arriving, Goff has played in all but three games for the Lions.

Given how the NFL has reworked roster rules when it comes to quarterbacks, the Lions felt comfortable enough letting Hooker go. Now, as teams begin to scan over new free agents, Hooker might attract some interest. Certainly someone who possesses a lot of potential, entering his second year in the league.

Dan Campbell believes Hendon Hooker needs change of scenery

This was a move many predicted based on comments from head coach Dan Campbell. Following Saturday’s preseason game, one where Hooker struggled, Campbell hinted at the quarterback possibly needing a change of scenery.

“How much development do you believe there is,” Campbell said. “We’re talking about Hooker right now, how much development do you believe there still is? Sometimes, does the player need a change of scenery?

“I wish Hooker — and I know he does — would have had a better outing, but you’ve got to take it with a grain of salt,” Campbell said. “It’s not like he was playing with our first o-line out there, or first team skill position, all of that. You take that all into account as well. I thought he was prepared, I thought he was ready, looked pretty calm, and circumstances didn’t work out today, that’s all.”

Hooker finished the game against Houston with 70 passing yards on 11 attempts. Only six of those were completed and an interception fell into the hands of Jalen Mills.

On3’s Nick Kosko contributed to this report