Former Vols QB Hendon Hooker takes big step forward in recovery from ACL injury during OTAs with Lions
Former Tennessee Vols quarterback Hendon Hooker, a third-round selection by the Detroit Lions in the 2023 NFL Draft, took a big step forward this week in his recovery from a torn ACL. Hooker, who suffered the injury during Tennessee's shocking loss to the South Carolina Gamecocks this past November, has been a close observer during […]
Former Tennessee Vols quarterback Hendon Hooker, a third-round selection by the Detroit Lions in the 2023 NFL Draft, took a big step forward this week in his recovery from a torn ACL.
Hooker, who suffered the injury during Tennessee's shocking loss to the South Carolina Gamecocks this past November, has been a close observer during Lions OTAs.
According to The Athletic's Colton Pouncy, Hooker was spotted with the first-team offense on Tuesday during the team's walk-through. Hooker couldn't participate, but he watched closely according to Pouncy.
From The Athletic: The Lions began Tuesday’s practice by splitting into two groups for walk-throughs. One side featured starters and key reserves, while the other featured younger players. It’s not an exact picture of how things will look in September, but it did feel worth noting. The rookies who began the open portion with the starters? Gibbs, LB Jack Campbell, WR Antoine Green and QB Hendon Hooker (who did not practice but watched closely).
Hooker is obviously eager to return to action. And he is getting closer to returning from his injury. SB Nation's "Pride of Detroit" noted on Wednesday morning that Hooker, for the first time since arriving in Detroit, threw routes to wide receivers this week.
From SB Nation: After the Detroit Lions cleared the field following Tuesday’s opening pracitce of mandatory minicamp, a significant milestone was being made. Rookie quarterback Hendon Hooker, the team’s third-round pick, took the field and started throwing passes to teammates running routes. It’s a significant step in Hooker’s rehabilitation from a torn ACL suffered in November.
“I felt pretty good,” said Hooker after his throwing session (via The Detroit Free Press). “Missed one ball to end it out, but it felt good. I felt I put the ball where I wanted to. As soon as my feet can match my thought process then (it will be even better). Really, they’re just not moving as fast [as] I want them to.”
Hooker isn't sure if he'll be ready to go by training camp since it will be right at nine months since he tore his ACL.
The former Vol is expected to "redshirt" this season for the Lions, but it wouldn't be a surprise if he's in the mix to be Detroit's primary backup by the midpoint of the 2023 season.
Featured image via Brianna Paciorka / USA TODAY NETWORK
