Hendon Hooker has found what he was looking for — a team that truly wanted him. Signing with the Carolina Panthers also meant a return to his home state, making the move even more meaningful.
On Wednesday, the 27-year-old quarterback officially joined Carolina’s practice squad and spoke with reporters after practice. He explained that his relationship with head coach Dave Canales, which dates back to the pre-draft process, played a big role in his decision.
“I wanted to be somewhere that valued me,” Hooker said, via Kassidy Hill of Panthers.com. “Coach Canales told me he’d like me to come in, learn, and grow under him. We built a strong connection during the draft process, and those conversations stuck with me. I’m excited to continue learning from him.”
That connection began in 2023, when Hooker was taken in the third round of the draft by the Detroit Lions. He spent his rookie season sidelined while recovering from a torn ACL suffered at Tennessee. In 2024, he finally saw the field, completing six of nine passes for 62 yards across three appearances.
Being a Greensboro, North Carolina native, the chance to suit up for the Panthers carries extra weight. Hooker recalled growing up watching the team and idolizing franchise legend Cam Newton. He also attended camps run by other Carolina icons like Steve Smith Sr. and Jake Delhomme.
“That Panthers logo has always stuck with me,” Hooker said.
Currently, Hooker slides in as Carolina’s third quarterback, sitting behind starter Bryce Young and veteran backup Andy Dalton on the depth chart.
