By Blessing 
NFL Analyst Evaluates Lions’ Free Agency Success and Hendon Hooker’s Uncertain Future
The Detroit Lions have been making waves in free agency, earning praise for their strategic moves. However, one particular signing—the addition of veteran quarterback Kyle Allen—has raised eyebrows about the team’s confidence in backup QB Hendon Hooker.
Lions Earn High Marks in Free Agency
According to ESPN’s Ben Solak, the Lions ranked fourth in the NFL for their free agency moves, largely because they retained key players while making smart, cost-effective upgrades. A prime example is the decision to replace veteran defensive back Carlton Davis with D.J. Reed, a move that saved the team $4 million annually.
While Detroit’s front office has received widespread approval for its roster-building approach, the signing of Allen has fueled speculation that the organization lacks trust in Hooker.
Hooker’s Standing in Question
Before the postseason, the Lions re-signed veteran quarterback Teddy Bridgewater, who was initially expected to transition into coaching. Instead, when it mattered most, he was elevated to the No. 2 quarterback spot, backing up Jared Goff in a crucial game against the Washington Commanders.
Solak didn’t hold back when analyzing what the Allen signing means for Hooker’s role moving forward.
“The implications behind the Kyle Allen signing. There’s nothing wrong with the signing — everyone loves a veteran quarterback at QB2. But the Lions are making it clear they do not trust Hendon Hooker,” Solak explained. “They replaced him at QB2 with Teddy Bridgewater last season once Bridgewater was done coaching his way to a high school championship, and Hooker will now battle with Allen for the same job. At this point, I’d be surprised if the 2023 third-round pick becomes a reliable backup anywhere. The Lions probably need a new developmental QB of the future.”
Although Hooker isn’t currently on the trade block, his status as Goff’s primary backup is far from secure.
Detroit’s Winning Formula
Despite the uncertainty around Hooker, the Lions have been widely commended for how they’ve built their roster over the past few years. Their success stems from drafting well, targeting the right players in free agency, and keeping key contributors who fit the team’s culture and identity.
Solak praised Detroit’s ability to retain core players at reasonable costs:
“The Lions’ lone big-ticket free agent addition was Reed, who replaces the outgoing Carlton Davis III at a $4 million yearly discount. That’s a solid swap,” Solak wrote. “Otherwise, they kept Barnes on a cheap deal relative to other linebackers; Onwuzurike, an ascending pass-rushing defensive tackle who had to moonlight as a defensive end last season; and Davenport, who is a good scheme fit but missed almost the entire season with injury.”
Additionally, offensive lineman Dan Skipper and wide receiver Tim Patrick were brought back on affordable, short-term deals, further solidifying the roster.
What’s Next?
While the Lions appear to have nailed their free agency strategy, the quarterback situation remains a storyline to watch. Hooker’s future in Detroit is uncertain, and with Allen in the mix, the battle for the backup role will be one of the more intriguing position battles heading into next season.