Key Takeaways:
– Detroit Lions coach Dan Campbell affirms growth in second-year QB Hendon Hooker.
– Hooker set to continue as No. 2 QB, following Bridgewater’s retirement.
– Despite progress, speculation rises over his future with the Lions.
Progress Noted in Hooker’s Performance
The Detroit Lions head coach Dan Campbell has endorsed the progress of second-year quarterback Hendon Hooker, cautioning that this is just the beginning of Hooker’s full tenure with the team. During a recent press talk, Campbell emphasized the necessity of growth in Hooker’s performance.
After a mixed performance in recent practice, Campbell remained focused on the improvement side of things. Hooker, who was on the reserve list for the majority of the last season due to an ACL injury, has returned showing significant improvements. According to Campbell, “There was some improvement yesterday that we had really been looking for… There’s some development there that was really good to see.”
Hooker’s Rise as the Backup Quarterback
With the retirement of seasoned player Teddy Bridgewater, the path is now clear for Hooker to step up as the backup behind Jared Goff. After being drafted by the Lions last year in the third round, he successfully made it onto the active roster and served as the team’s emergency quarterback.
At the moment, despite having spent last season in a limited manner with the team’s coaching staff, this year symbolizes a new phase for Hooker. Campbell noted, “This is his first spring. This is the first time he’s been through spring, it’ll be his first training camp.”
Vague Future Despite Expected Role
Nevertheless, despite the progress, Hooker’s future with the Lions might be uncertain. Hooker was widely floated as a probable successor to the starting quarterback Jared Goff in early 2023. However, after Goff led the Lions to the brink of the Super Bowl victory and secured a lucrative contract extension, the situation has taken a turn.
Now, there are growing speculations that Hooker, instead of being a potential starter, could be used as a trade piece by the Lions. As pointed out by Colton Pouncy in The Athletic, “The Lions drafted him to be a high-upside backup with starting potential if needed, but… could a trade down the road be the best way to maximize his value?” However, such a possibility is not likely to be executed within this season, and maybe an option when Hooker is further into his contract period.
As the season unfolds, it will be intriguing to follow Hooker’s progress and his potential evolution within the team or as a trade asset. Despite uncertainties, Campbell’s faith in Hooker’s growth and his potential role as a backup quarterback for the forthcoming season sets the stage for what could be a pivotal time in his career.