It’s not exactly a glowing endorsement of the behind-the-scenes development from Hooker. The 2023 third-round pick appeared in three games in which the Lions scored 49 or more points last season, completing 6-of-9 passes for 62 yards. It sounds like Kyle Allen (and potentially Jake Fromm) will push him for No. 2 duties this offseason.

Hooker began the year as the Lions’ No. 2, but was easily jumped by late-season free agent addition Teddy Bridgewater. Already 27 years old, Hendon’s NFL future is looking more theoretical than actual.

Hooker played the first three-plus quarters of the game before giving way to Jake Fromm late in the fourth. The 26-year-old quarterback had some issues with holding onto the ball and lost a fumble on top of the interception, but he also showed off his athleticism and made some strong throws in his second preseason game. Hooker isn’t likely to win the backup job from Nate Sudfeld, but he at least put out some quality tape if the Lions were to move on from the 2023 third-round selection. It’s also possible that Detroit will carry three quarterbacks to begin the year.

Hooker sustained a concussion in Detroit’s preseason opener against the Giants. It doesn’t look like he’ll miss any time with the brain injury. Hooker, who missed all of 2023 with an ACL injury he suffered during his final collegiate season, completed five of nine passes for 36 scoreless yards last week against the Giants. He’ll get plenty of playing time this preseason.