The Detroit Lions are looking to have Hendon Hooker compete with veteran Kyle Allen for the backup quarterback position behind starter Jared Goff. General manager Brad Holmes emphasized the organization’s continued optimism for Hooker, a former third-round draft pick, but also made it clear that no positions will be handed out.

“Still got high hopes for him, but nobody’s gonna be given a job either,” Holmes remarked, via ESPN. “So, if Hendon wants to be the No. 2 quarterback, then win the No. 2 quarterback job.”

Hooker, who served as the backup for most of last season, saw his role change when the Lions signed veteran Teddy Bridgewater, promoting him to the backup role during the postseason. Throughout the 2023 season, Hooker was mostly the emergency third quarterback on game days, seeing limited action due to Goff’s durability. With Goff having recently secured a substantial contract extension, it seems unlikely Hooker will get an opportunity to start unless an injury occurs.

In response to Hooker’s situation, Detroit opted to sign Kyle Allen to a one-year deal worth $1.27 million. The modest contract raises questions about the team’s confidence in Allen taking over the backup role, considering other veteran backups earn significantly more.

Allen, 29, spent the 2024 season with the Pittsburgh Steelers, but has had stints with five other NFL teams in his seven-year career. His record as a starter stands at 7-12 across 19 starts. Allen notably went 5-2 as a starter with the Carolina Panthers in 2019. Last season, he played in one game for the Steelers, completing one pass for 19 yards.