As the Detroit Lions prepare for the offseason, they are expected to make several moves in free agency. With approximately $46 million in cap space, the team has the financial flexibility to address key needs. However, general manager Brad Holmes may still look for ways to free up additional funds by parting ways with players on less favorable contracts.
While Detroit doesn’t have many clear-cut release candidates, ESPN’s Bill Barnwell has suggested that the team might consider moving on from quarterback Hendon Hooker.
“There aren’t many players seeing significant playing time who stand out as likely cap casualties for the Lions,” Barnwell wrote. “One possible exception is Hooker, who, at 27 years old, has attempted just nine passes in two seasons. It was telling that Detroit opted to bring in a semi-retired Teddy Bridgewater late in the season and immediately placed him ahead of Hooker on the depth chart. That decision became crucial when Jared Goff temporarily exited the playoff game against Washington.”
Barnwell further pointed out that although Hooker is only set to make $1.3 million in unguaranteed salary in 2025, his lack of experience makes him an unreliable backup. Additionally, with Goff securing a contract extension last May, Hooker is unlikely to be Detroit’s long-term solution at quarterback.
Detroit originally selected Hooker in the third round of the 2023 NFL Draft, but his development was stalled by a torn ACL sustained in his final collegiate season at Tennessee. The 2022 SEC Offensive Player of the Year saw limited action in 2024, appearing in three games and completing six of nine passes for 69 yards.
His spot on the depth chart took a hit late in the season when Detroit signed Bridgewater on December 26. Coming out of retirement, Bridgewater had been coaching his alma mater, Miami Northwestern Senior High School, and led the team to a state championship before joining the Lions.
Despite Hooker’s limited playing time and uncertain future as a starting-caliber quarterback, cutting him wouldn’t provide Detroit with significant financial relief. The team would also be left dealing with dead cap penalties.
Instead, retaining Hooker in 2025 could prove beneficial. While the Lions may seek a more experienced backup for Goff, keeping Hooker would maintain consistency within the quarterback group. His athleticism and familiarity with the system make him a valuable depth option, even if he never emerges as a long-term starter.
