When the Detroit Lions drafted quarterback Hendon Hooker in the third round of the 2023 NFL draft, it was done with the expectation that Hooker would not be ready right away. The Tennessee QB was recovering from an ACL tear late in the college season, plus the Lions have an established Pro Bowl starter in Jared Goff.
Even so, Hooker’s recovery status and potential activation from the NFI list remains a popular discussion point. Head coach Dan Campbell was asked about Hooker and his potential timeline on Monday.
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“We’re not there yet,” Campbell said of getting Hooker onto the active roster. “But he’s getting better.”
Hooker was throwing well and moving without much limitation during the preseason, working with trainers on getting himself ready. With Goff playing very well and veteran Teddy Bridgewater serving as a quality backup, there is no rush to get Hooker back in action.