Hendon Hooker set the college football world on fire during the 2022 season, dazzling in Josh Heupel’s Tennessee offense for much of the season. Unfortunately, a knee injury cut Hooker’s Heisman hopeful season short and put a dent in the quarterback’s NFL Draft stock.

If not for the injury, Hooker was likely in the mix to become a first-round pick and one of the top QBs selected. With the knee injury, Hooker fell all the way to the 3rd round when the Detroit Lions grabbed the QB with the 68th overall pick.

While Hooker landed in a great situation to learn and develop while finishing off his rehab, it does not diminish the feelings of being doubted and overlooked in the draft process. Talking to the media during minicamp, Hooker explained how the entire process just added more fuel to his fire to get better.

“It just turns into fuel, turns into a chip on my shoulder,” Hooker explained. “‘Oh, his leg’s hurt.’ Film doesn’t lie, I was the SEC Offensive Player of the Year for a reason. And it’s because of the work I put in and the people around me that helped me get there. So just using that, adding that as fuel to the fire, and having that chip on my shoulder and wanting to work. So every day I come in here I have motivation.”

Outlook for Hendon Hooker in Detroit

While Hooker has plenty of motivation, it is unlikely he begins his NFL career as a rookie starter for the Lions due to multiple variables. The young QB continues to rehab on a successful pace per most reports but will still need a bit more time to get back to full strength.

Beyond Hooker’s rehab, Jared Goff is likely cemented as Detroit’s starter to begin 2023 due to his performance a year ago and his contract for the season ahead. After 2023, the situation could look much different depending on Hooker’s growth while developing as a backup.

As long as he returns to full strength, Hooker has a great shot to be the QB of the future for the Lions. He also should have a great shot to be successful due to the complimentary offensive pieces in Detroit.