Lions Add Veteran QB Kyle Allen, Raising Questions About Depth Chart
The Detroit Lions have made a move to bolster their quarterback room, agreeing to terms with veteran signal-caller Kyle Allen. The 29-year-old, who spent last season with the Pittsburgh Steelers, will now compete for a backup role behind Jared Goff.
Allen’s addition is the latest shake-up at the position for Detroit. Hendon Hooker, who was expected to be the team’s primary backup in 2024, saw his role diminished late in the season when the Lions opted to bring back Teddy Bridgewater just before the playoffs. Bridgewater ultimately served as Goff’s backup in Detroit’s postseason matchup against Washington, casting doubt on Hooker’s long-term future with the team.
Now, with Allen in the mix, Hooker’s status becomes even more uncertain. The former third-round pick has spent the last two seasons developing behind Goff but has yet to see meaningful playing time. Allen, meanwhile, brings experience from stints with Carolina, Washington, Houston, Buffalo, and Pittsburgh. Across seven seasons, he has played in 31 games, making 19 starts while throwing for 4,753 yards and 26 touchdowns.
Despite Goff’s durability—he has played all 17 games in each of the last three seasons—the Lions clearly want a reliable insurance plan. Whether Allen simply adds depth or signals a shift in Detroit’s backup quarterback plans remains to be seen.
Detroit Lions Set to Sign Veteran Quarterback Kyle Allen to Strengthen QB Room
