The Detroit Lions may have their franchise quarterback locked in with Jared Goff, but the battle for the No. 2 spot could get a little more interesting soon. A new name is popping up on the radar: Bryce Perkins, the reigning MVP of the UFL and current quarterback of the Michigan Panthers.
Perkins has turned heads this spring, showing off his dual-threat abilities by throwing for over 1,300 yards and nine touchdowns — and rushing for another 300 yards and five scores. He’s helped lead the Panthers to the UFL title game, and now there’s buzz that the Lions should give him a shot to compete during training camp.
It’s not just about his on-field talent. Perkins has NFL experience — he was with the Rams back in 2022 when Brad Holmes, now Detroit’s GM, was still in Los Angeles. That connection could open the door for a reunion.
Right now, Hendon Hooker and veteran Kyle Allen are battling for the backup job behind Goff. Hooker was once thought to be Goff’s potential successor, but with Goff earning a new deal and leading Detroit to two straight division titles, Hooker’s future is uncertain — especially after falling behind Teddy Bridgewater on the depth chart late last season.
Holmes says the team still believes in Hooker, but they’re not handing him anything. Bringing in a competitor like Perkins could raise the level of play across the board — and possibly give the Lions one more exciting option behind center.