The Carolina Panthers made a series of roster moves earlier this week, with one of the most notable being the release of quarterback Hendon Hooker from their practice squad. The decision, which came on November 4, 2025, marks another tough chapter in Hooker’s young NFL journey as he continues searching for a stable opportunity.
Hooker, a 2023 third-round pick of the Detroit Lions, was signed to Carolina’s practice squad earlier this season after being waived by Detroit during final roster cuts in August. Despite flashes of potential, his time with the Panthers was short-lived. The team made the move to free up space for new additions, including running back DeeJay Dallas, safety Israel Mukuamu, and guard Ja’Tyre Carter. Alongside Hooker, offensive lineman Michael Tarquin and linebacker Carlos “Boogie” Basham were also released.
For Carolina, the decision was based on depth and fit rather than talent. The Panthers’ quarterback room is currently anchored by starter Bryce Young and veteran backup Andy Dalton. With the team recently signing Mike White as additional insurance, Hooker’s role became redundant. While the former Tennessee standout showed promise as a developmental prospect, Carolina ultimately prioritized experience and immediate roster needs.
Hooker entered the league with significant expectations after an impressive college career. During his time with the Tennessee Volunteers, he was a Heisman Trophy candidate before a late-season ACL injury in 2022 cut his campaign short. Known for his accuracy, mobility, and leadership, Hooker was viewed as a potential long-term project when Detroit drafted him. However, he never appeared in a regular-season game for the Lions, spending most of his rookie season recovering from injury and later competing for a backup role.
During the 2025 preseason, Hooker completed 29 of 44 passes for just over 300 yards, with one touchdown and one interception, while also showing flashes of athleticism with 138 rushing yards. Despite those numbers, the Lions chose to move forward with veteran quarterbacks, leading to his eventual release.
Now a free agent, Hooker will look to continue his NFL journey elsewhere. Teams seeking a young, mobile quarterback with developmental upside could still find value in the 26-year-old signal-caller. While his path has been rocky, Hooker’s combination of poise, intelligence, and athleticism keeps the door open for another opportunity — perhaps with a team looking to build depth or invest in a future backup option.
