Grading Lions' Pick of QB Hendon Hooker at No. 68
Detroit general manager Brad Holmes emphasized earlier this offseason that addressing the backup quarterback position was a priority of his, and he proved to be a man of his word Friday night. He selected Tennessee quarterback Hendon Hooker with the No. 68 pick, and instantly strengthened the Lions’ quarterbacks room by doing so.
Prior to the selection of Hooker, Nate Sudfeld was projected to be Jared Goff’s backup for the 2023 season.
Hooker, who is presently recovering from a torn ACL that he suffered in mid-November, is viewed as an upgrade over Sudfeld. Additionally, with time and proper grooming, there is the belief that the Volunteers product could develop into a starting-caliber passer at the next level.
Remember, prior to the season-ending injury, Hooker was a Heisman Trophy candidate and a potential first-round draft pick.
In 11 games a season ago, the dual-threat signal-caller threw for 3,135 yards and 27 touchdowns, while adding another 430 yards and five scores as a runner. For his efforts, he was named the 2022 SEC Offensive Player of the Year.
Tennessee Volunteers quarterback Hendon Hooker
Caitie McMekin, USA TODAY NETWORK
Hooker’s collegiate career spanned 49 total games, with the first 25 of them coming at Virginia Tech. As a whole, he amassed 11,053 yards of total offense.
According to NFL Draft Bible, “There is a lot to like about the Tennessee signal-caller, both physically and mechanically. Hooker has a thick frame with room to add mass and terrific height for the position. As a passer, Hooker shows a compact release, where he uses his frame to create velocity on multiple drive throws. He displays an effortless flick of the wrist, showing off his arm talent. His ability to reach all parts of the field is uncanny, with multiple throws from the far hash into the wide part of the field.”
As ESPN’s Mel Kiper Jr. said during Friday’s broadcast, the Volunteers passer has an “NFL arm,” and "can extend plays” with his legs. Hooker, in fact, recorded four 100-yard rushing games during his time as a college signal-caller.
He seems like he’ll be the perfect understudy to Goff, and the comments Hooker made after being drafted made that even more clear.
"I'll be a sponge, come in and learn every nuance of how to be a pro," Hooker said Friday, when talking about learning behind Goff. "Just admire him. He’s been doing a great job of developing every year. I’ll be picking his brain whenever I can."
I also believe Hooker's talented enough to one day start under center for the Lions.
I’m a fan of the pick, and give it a “B” grade.
