Why a 26-TD Veteran QB May Never Play a Snap for the Lions — Despite 4,700+ Career Yards

Kyle Allen Faces Long Odds to Play in Detroit

Since acquiring Jared Goff from the Los Angeles Rams in 2021, the Lions have made smart moves to support their quarterback. Initially viewed as a temporary bridge following the trade for Matthew Stafford, Goff wasn’t expected to be the long-term answer.

That narrative didn’t hold up.

Goff has experienced a resurgence in Detroit. He’s posted three straight seasons with more than 4,400 passing yards and at least 29 touchdowns. Operating efficiently in offensive coordinator Ben Johnson’s system, Goff has proven to be a reliable and composed leader.

In 2024, he reached new heights, completing 72.4% of his throws for 4,629 yards and 37 touchdowns—numbers that led to a four-year, $212 million contract extension, locking him in as the franchise quarterback for years to come.

With Goff firmly entrenched as the starter, the Lions have turned their attention to developing Hooker. The 2023 third-round pick continues to recover from a college ACL injury that caused him to slide in the draft. Reports out of offseason practices indicate Hooker is making strides.

Hooker is mobile and has solid accuracy when in rhythm. What he still lacks is game-time experience and a full command of the playbook.

That’s where Kyle Allen enters the picture—brought in as a veteran presence and insurance policy. However, his chances of making a lasting impact are slim.

Allen has played for several teams and has 19 career starts under his belt, totaling over 4,700 passing yards and 26 touchdowns. His most productive year came in 2019 with the Carolina Panthers, where he started 12 games, threw for 3,322 yards, 17 touchdowns, and completed 62% of his passes. But he also tossed 21 interceptions in his career and has struggled with inconsistency.

Allen inked a one-year deal worth $1.27 million. If the Lions decide to release him before the season opener, they could save approximately $1 million in cap space. And if Hooker shows he’s ready for the backup job, Allen may exit without ever suiting up for a regular-season snap in Detroit.