The Detroit Lions still have a decision to make at quarterback, and Hendon Hooker’s preseason finale didn’t exactly make things easier.
Speaking after Saturday’s game against the Houston Texans, head coach Dan Campbell admitted he was hoping to see more from the second-year signal-caller.
“I wish Hooker would’ve had a little bit better outing,” Campbell said as quoted by Eric Woodyard.
Hooker finished the afternoon 6-of-11 for 70 yards with one interception, adding a 25-yard scramble. While he showed flashes, he also took two sacks and missed opportunities to move the offense downfield.
Campbell noted, however, that context matters. Hooker spent most of his snaps working with the third-string offense, which limited his chances to establish rhythm.
“Circumstances didn’t work out today,” Campbell added.
What It Means for the QB Room
The Lions are still debating whether to keep three quarterbacks on the roster or roll with just Jared Goff and Kyle Allen. Allen has had a strong preseason, throwing for 335 yards and four touchdowns, while Hooker’s struggles have fueled speculation about his future.
Hooker himself has expressed confidence that he’s shown enough to earn a spot, but Campbell’s comments suggest the staff is still evaluating.
The Bottom Line
Dan Campbell and Brad Holmes face a tough call ahead of Tuesday’s roster cut deadline. Do they keep Hooker as a developmental piece, or use that spot to shore up depth elsewhere?
For now, Campbell is keeping his cards close, but Hooker’s margin for error just got smaller.