

The Detroit Lions are in full swing toward the 2025 season, but not without one obstacle to overcome: the future of their backup quarterbacks.
Despite taking no preseason snaps, Jared Goff stands firmly entrenched as Detroit’s starter. Meanwhile, Hendon Hooker’s struggles have raised red flags, prompting coach Dan Campbell and the front office to explore trade options.
Detroit Lions make a fashion statement as they arrive for their playoff game vs. Washington Commanders
Goff, whom many regard as the team’s emotional and on-field leader, took the season off-field in camp to prep the offense off the back of the Lions’ impressive 15-2 record in 2024.
He’s been given every opportunity to focus on leading without the distraction of preseason snaps. But behind him on the QB chart, there is a fierce battle emerging.
Competition arises between Hooker and Allen
That left the backup job between Hooker-last year’s third-round pick-and veteran Kyle Allen, whose early outings have outshined expectations. Hooker’s performances, however, have been tentative.
Against the Falcons on August 8, he went 7-of-10 for 38 yards and added 27 on the ground-but critically, he lost two fumbles. A second showing on August 16 versus the Dolphins resulted in 6-of-13 for 61 yards and an interception.
Behind the scenes, the Lions are considering trading Hooker instead of outright releasing him. According to AtoZ Sports, Detroit could secure a conditional 2026 sixth-round pick, dropping to a seventh if Hooker is off the roster by season’s end.
As Mike Payton explains, “quarterbacks are simply viewed differently in this league… quarterbacks get a pass or a longer rope.”
In essence, even underwhelming preseason action can still generate trade value-and the Lions may opt for that secure return. Goff’s undisputed leadership has likely made preserving value an easier decision rather than just cutting bait.
Locker room loyalty fuels stability
What anchors this decision is the overwhelming support from within the locker room for Jared Goff himself. On The Pivot Podcast, teammate David Montgomery emphasized, “Everybody don’t really know that JG really got some (expletive) to him… that’s who I want leading the troops. JG is a dog, and he is a great quarterback. I respect him.”
Jahmyr Gibbs added, “Yeah, JG is a dog, man. He is everything to this team.” Their words reflect the visceral confidence Goff inspires-a factor likely guiding the team’s decision-making this offseason. Backed by both teammate sentiment and a proven track record, Goff’s position is rock solid.
The Lions enter the season with a veteran, high-powered quarterback firmly in place. Their consideration to trade Hooker for even minimal future return underscores a practical approach in roster management-leveraging a backup’s trade value rather than risk total loss.
As Kyle Allen continues to impress and camp moves toward final cuts, Detroit may choose value preservation over hopeful development – and that may be bad news for Hendon Hooker.
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