The Detroit Lions are making sure Hendon Hooker earns his spot as Jared Goff’s backup. They’ve signed veteran Kyle Allen to compete for the No. 2 quarterback job, making it clear that nothing is guaranteed.
Despite high hopes for Hooker, GM Brad Holmes emphasized that the team isn’t just handing out jobs. “If Hendon wants to be the No. 2 quarterback, then win the No. 2 quarterback job,” Holmes said.
Last season, Hooker spent most of the year as the emergency QB behind Goff and Teddy Bridgewater. With Bridgewater now out of the picture, Detroit has brought in Allen, a 29-year-old journeyman with experience on five different teams. He’s started 19 career games, going 7-12, but hasn’t played much recently last season, he threw just one pass for the Steelers.
Detroit’s decision to sign Allen to a modest one-year deal suggests they still believe in Hooker but want him to prove he’s ready to step up. With Goff locked in as the starter, the battle for QB2 is officially on.
