The Detroit Lions have chosen quarterback Hendon Hooker from the University of Tennessee at pick 68 in the 2023 NFL Draft. The 6-foot-3, 217-pound Hooker was an early Heisman Trophy favorite before a torn ACL ended his season prematurely. Despite the setback, he earned SEC Offensive Player of the Year honors, throwing for 3,135 yards and 27 touchdowns with only two interceptions, while rushing for 430 yards and five more touchdowns in 11 starts.

Hooker’s Experience Could Be a Plus

Although Hooker’s age (25) is seen as a drawback by some, his experience playing in 49 college games with 37 starts in two different offensive systems should allow him to adapt quickly to the NFL. Veteran Jared Goff is the Lions’ 2023 starter, but GM Brad Holmes is looking to improve depth behind him.

Lions Add Young Talent to QB Roster

Detroit has reportedly offered a contract to veteran Teddy Bridgewater to back up Goff, while also re-signing Nate Sudfeld. Adding Hooker, who completed 67% of his passes in college with 80 touchdowns and 12 interceptions, will create competition for the backup role and provide a safety net should Goff be unable to play.

Hooker’s Impressive College Stats

In 2022, Hooker led the nation’s top offense in yards and points, with an FBS-best 9.53 yards per pass attempt. He ranked second in pass efficiency (175.5) and seventh in completion percentage (69.6). He also set Tennessee records with 261 passes without an interception and a touchdown pass in 20 consecutive games.

Hooker Eager to Learn from Veterans

Hooker expressed enthusiasm about joining the Lions and learning from Goff, telling Detroitlions.com, “I’m going to be able to come in and soak up as much information as I can, not just on the field but off the field as well. Being able to just dive in and learn what he knows… I want to be able to be pushed and compete in a positive environment.”

Analysts Praise Hooker’s Potential

NFL Media analyst Daniel Jeremiah lauded Hooker as an “ultra-productive QB with size, accuracy, and athleticism.” Jeremiah praised Hooker’s outstanding field vision, quick decision-making, and ability to deliver the ball in a position that enables receivers to run after the catch. Despite concerns about his age and ACL injury, Jeremiah views Hooker as a quality starting quarterback with the potential for the best career among passers in this year’s draft class.

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For more from our Detroit Lions beat writer, Matt Broder, check him out on Twitter here: @mattbro21

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