The Detroit Lions’ decision to part ways with quarterback Hendon Hooker, a third-round pick just two years ago, has raised eyebrows across the NFL. While the move may align with Detroit’s immediate plans, it could prove to be a costly mistake—one that their NFC North rivals, the Green Bay Packers, are poised to capitalize on. By targeting Hooker, the Packers could not only bolster their quarterback depth but also gain a strategic edge in their Week 1 matchup against the Lions at Lambeau Field.
Lions’ Bold Move Signals Opportunity for Green Bay
Hooker’s tenure in Detroit was underwhelming, particularly in the 2025 preseason, where he completed just 22 of 40 passes for 187 yards, with no touchdowns and three interceptions. These struggles, combined with head coach Dan Campbell’s cryptic comment that Hooker might “need a change of scenery,” sealed his fate. The Lions opted to move forward with Kyle Allen as the primary backup to Jared Goff, leaving Hooker on the waiver wire.
For the Packers, this presents a golden opportunity. If Hooker clears waivers, Green Bay should act swiftly to sign him to their practice squad. The move would serve two critical purposes: developing a high-upside quarterback under head coach Matt LaFleur and gaining valuable insight into the Lions’ revamped offensive scheme ahead of their Week 1 clash.
A Developmental Gem for LaFleur’s System
Hendon Hooker, despite his rocky preseason, is a former third-round pick for a reason. His athleticism, arm talent, and playmaking ability made him a standout at Tennessee before a torn ACL derailed his rookie season in 2023. Limited playing time in 2024 meant he never fully found his footing in Detroit, but his potential remains undeniable. A year ago, Hooker showed flashes in the preseason, earning a spot as Goff’s backup for the season.
Enter Matt LaFleur, whose track record for developing quarterbacks is impeccable. Look no further than Malik Willis, a former third-round pick whom the Titans gave up on after a lackluster stint in Tennessee. Willis completed just 53 percent of his passes for 350 yards, no touchdowns, and three interceptions during his time with the Titans. After being traded to Green Bay for a seventh-round pick, Willis thrived in LaFleur’s quarterback-friendly system. In 2024, he completed 74.1 percent of his passes for 550 yards, three touchdowns, and zero interceptions, going 2-0 as a starter and sparking a comeback victory against the Jacksonville Jaguars.
LaFleur’s scheme maximizes quarterback strengths, and Hooker could be the next success story. Signing him to the practice squad would provide Green Bay with a developmental prospect who could serve as a significant upgrade over current QB3 options like Sean Clifford and Taylor Elgersma.
A Strategic Edge for Week 1
Beyond long-term potential, Hooker’s immediate value lies in his knowledge of the Lions’ new offensive system. With Ben Johnson’s departure, Detroit’s new offensive coordinator, John Morton, has introduced a fresh playbook. While some elements may resemble the previous scheme, Morton is likely to incorporate unscouted looks and new wrinkles that could catch the Packers off guard in Week 1.
Having spent the entire offseason immersed in Morton’s system, Hooker could provide Green Bay’s coaching staff with critical insights. From play tendencies to personnel preferences, even the smallest details could tilt the scales in a tightly contested divisional matchup. In a rivalry where every advantage matters, Hooker’s intel could be a game-changer.
Why the Lions Might Regret This Move
The Lions’ decision to cut Hooker is a gamble. While Kyle Allen offers reliability as a backup, he lacks the upside of a young, high-ceiling prospect like Hooker. Detroit also waived veteran offensive lineman Dan Skipper, another player the Packers should consider targeting. These cuts signal a willingness to prioritize short-term stability over long-term potential—a strategy that could backfire if Hooker flourishes elsewhere.
If Green Bay signs Hooker and unlocks his potential, the Lions could find themselves facing a familiar foe in future NFC North battles. LaFleur’s ability to transform quarterbacks like Willis suggests that Hooker could become a viable backup or even a trade asset down the line. At the very least, he would provide depth and flexibility behind Jordan Love.
A No-Brainer for the Packers
The Green Bay Packers have a history of turning other teams’ castoffs into valuable contributors—just look at the Rasul Douglas trade, which was once criticized but now looks like a masterstroke. Signing Hendon Hooker could be the next savvy move by general manager Brian Gutekunst. With minimal risk and significant upside, adding Hooker to the practice squad is a low-cost investment that could pay dividends both on the field and in the film room.
If Hooker clears waivers, the Packers should pounce. The Lions’ loss could become Green Bay’s gain, and Detroit might soon regret letting a talented quarterback slip through their fingers.