Jared Goff’s job is as safe as it gets—but the question now is: Who’s holding the clipboard behind him?
Heading into the 2025 season, the Detroit Lions still haven’t officially named their No. 2 quarterback, and the competition behind Goff is anything but settled. Right now, it looks like a two-man race between Hendon Hooker and Nate Sudfeld, with rookie Adrian Martinez on the outside looking in.
Let’s break it down:
Hendon Hooker has the tools. He’s mobile, smart, and has a live arm. But he’s still shaking off rust from last year’s ACL injury and adjusting to NFL speed. The Lions clearly believe in his upside, and he’s shown flashes in camp—but consistency has been an issue.
Nate Sudfeld, on the other hand, is the steady veteran. He knows the system, has the trust of the coaching staff, and doesn’t make a lot of flashy plays—but that might be exactly what you want from your backup QB. Someone who can step in, keep the ship afloat, and not lose games.
Then there’s Adrian Martinez, the rookie who had a rough debut in the Hall of Fame Game. He’s got athleticism but looked overwhelmed and careless with the ball. Unless he turns things around quickly, he’s likely destined for the practice squad—if anything.
With two preseason games to go, this battle is far from over. But right now, it’s shaping up like Sudfeld might hold the edge to open the year, while Hooker continues to develop as the future QB2.
Campbell and Brad Holmes have a tough decision ahead. Do you go with the safe bet—or the high-upside project?
