Who is Lions QB Hendon Hooker? Career stats, contract details...

Hendon Hooker, the Detroit Lions’ third-round draft pick, stands at a crossroads in his career. With Jared Goff currently entrenched as the Lions’ starting quarterback, Hooker finds himself in a unique position—one where his potential could eventually see him take the reins, but only if he performs and adapts better.

Hendon Hooker’s high school days

Hooker’s high school career at Dudley High School in Greensboro, North Carolina, was impressive. As a dual-threat quarterback, he threw for over 6,000 yards and 55 touchdowns while also rushing for nearly 3,000 yards and 48 touchdowns. His performances made him one of the top quarterbacks in the country and a highly sought-after recruit. Ultimately, Hooker chose Virginia Tech, valuing its proximity to home and the welcoming culture he found there.

Virginia Tech and Tennessee

Hooker had a rollercoaster college career. He was once considered one of the top college Football quarterbacks, even being a frontrunner for the Heisman Trophy. His time at Virginia Tech had its ups and downs, showing potential in 2019 but struggling in 2020 and eventually transferring to Tennessee. In 2021, Hooker excelled, leading Tennessee to impressive victories and posting impressive stats.

However, his season—and his draft prospects—were dramatically altered when he tore his ACL. Despite finishing that last college season with over 3,000 passing yards, 27 touchdowns, and only two interceptions, the injury raised serious concerns among NFL scouts. While his physical attributes and on-field intelligence impressed, his age, injury, and the simplistic offensive system he played in at Tennessee were viewed as potential drawbacks.

In 49 games during his college career, he had 8,974 passing yards, 80 touchdowns, and 12 interceptions.

Detroit taking him in the 2023 Draft and his contract details

The Lions ultimately selected Hooker in the third round of the 2023 NFL Draft. Detroit head coach Dan Campbell made it clear that the plan for Hooker is to redshirt his rookie year, allowing him time to recover from his injury and learn under Goff.

“This is really just a redshirt year for him,” Campbell said. “He has to get his leg right first, and then he’ll learn under Jared Goff. We’ll see what happens—if he can eventually become your number two backup, or maybe down the road, it’s more than that.”

Hendon Hooker has signed a 4-year, $5,719,021 contract with the Detroit Lions. This includes a signing bonus of $1,159,288, with $1,159,288 guaranteed, and an average annual salary of $1,429,755. In 2024, Hooker will earn a base salary of $1,009,956. His contract carries a cap hit of $1,299,778 and a dead cap value of $869,466.