Former Tennessee QB Hendon Hooker details his relationship with Lions QB Jared Goff
Former Tennessee Vols quarterback Hendon Hooker was selected in the third round of the 2023 NFL Draft by the Detroit Lions. Hooker, the reigning SEC offensive player of hte year, fell to the third round in part because of the torn ACL he suffered in Tennessee's loss to the South Carolina Gamecocks last season. The […]
Former Tennessee Vols quarterback Hendon Hooker was selected in the third round of the 2023 NFL Draft by the Detroit Lions.
Hooker, the reigning SEC offensive player of hte year, fell to the third round in part because of the torn ACL he suffered in Tennessee's loss to the South Carolina Gamecocks last season.
The former Vols standout is currently rehabbing his knee as he hopes to be ready for training camp later this summer.
Detroit isn't planning to rush Hooker into action. In fact, Lions head coach Dan Campbell said earlier this spring that the 2023 season is going to be like a "redshirt season" for Hooker.
That means Jared Goff will remain the Lions' starting quarterback in 2023.
As a result, Hooker isn't expected to make a big impact in 2023. But that's not going to deter Hooker from trying to take the job from Goff this fall. Hooker is an intense competitor and he's made it clear that he's going to continue to prepare this season as if his number could be called at any time.
Hendon Hooker details his relationship with Jared Goff
Hooker appeared on NFL Network's "Good Morning Football" on Friday and he was asked about his relationship with Goff.
The Greensboro, NC native said he's been impressed by Goff so far.
"They've been great," said Hooker of his conversations with Goff. "You know, our lockers are right beside each other, so a lot of small talk and really getting to know each other. Some jokes in there. But you know, essentially, you know, he's an amazing quarterback. Just continuing to learn from him and watch him. Watching his footwork, watching how he directs traffic when he's in the huddle, and just taking command of the total offense. So it's amazing to see him operate. And one day, I hope to be on that level and operate as efficiently as he does."
Hooker might be competing with Goff for the starting quarterback job (even if Campbell says Hooker isn't competing, the former Vol is going to treat it as a competition), but he knows there's plenty to learn from the veteran quarterback. That willingness to learn is part of why Hooker is poised to have a successful NFL career.
It'll be interesting to see how the Lions handle Hooker this season. The Lions have been deliberate about quelling any hype for the rookie, but fans will undoubtedly be eager to see what he has to offer in Detroit.
