The Detroit Lions experienced a scare in the first half of their only playoff game this postseason against the Washington Commanders when quarterback Jared Goff exited the field and made his way to the foreboding blue tent set up on the sidelines.
As the Lions re-emerged on offense, head coach Dan Campbell opted for the recently un-retired Teddy Bridgewater rather than former third-round selection and Tennessee Volunteers standout Hendon Hooker.
That choice by Campbell effectively conveys everything necessary regarding the young quarterback’s future with the team. On January 30, Bill Barnwell from ESPN identified Hooker as Detroit’s leading option for release as the offseason approaches.
“The Lions lack any players taking significant snaps who stand out as probable cap casualties.” A possible candidate is the 27-year-old Hooker, who has completed nine passes in two years, Barnwell stated. “Hooker will receive just $1.3 million in un-guaranteed funds in 2025, but he’s too unseasoned to serve as a dependable backup and too aged to be a future quarterback, particularly following Goff’s extension signing last May.”
Bridgewater likely isn’t a long-term answer as the Lions’ backup, given that he retired to coach a high school football team at the start of 2024 and only resumed active NFL status after it secured a Florida state championship.
Bridgewater completed 1-of-1 passes for 3 yards against the Commanders in the divisional round and will celebrate his 33rd birthday next November.