Hendon Hooker’s torn ACL doesn’t dismiss his obvious talent.

The Detroit Lions selected Hendon Hooker with the 68th overall pick (5th pick of the third round) of the 2023 NFL Draft Friday night. After seeing his stock rise all the way to the fridge of the first round per some projections, Hooker was eventually selected in Round 3 after falling out of the first two rounds.

And while it’s impossible to top The Sheriff on Rocky Top, Hooker’s name is going to be one of legend around Knoxville for decades to come. The Virginia Tech transfer started out on the bench for the Vols, working his way to the starting lineup and keeping it that way.

He re-assumed the starting role in 2022 and flourished, leading Tennessee to its first 10-win season since 2007, finishing 11-2. He threw for 3,135 yards, 27 touchdowns and 2 interceptions this past season. What really stands out about Hooker is his decision-making and athleticism; and his 5 interceptions across 2 seasons at Tennessee shows that well, not to mention his 430 rushing yards with 5 touchdowns.

Hooker does not have the strongest arm in this draft, but he throws a deadly-accurate deep ball. Check out this incredible throw to Jalin Hyatt against LSU:

But that doesn’t mean he can’t fit it in a window, either. Hooker showed off some incredible accuracy down the middle of the field, especially in 2022.

So, why didn’t he go higher?

Unfortunately, Hooker tore his ACL in the penultimate game of the regular season against South Carolina. It’s healed quicker than anticipated, but with the brutal physicality of the NFL, combined with Hooker’s age and injury issues, a top 5 selection always seemed out of the picture.

But the Lions got a steal with Hooker regardless. Many are lauding the former Tennessee quarterback as a sleeper pick that could shine in the NFL.

He knocked his last opportunity out of the park. Let’s see what he can do at the highest level of the sport.