Detroit Lions' Hendon Hooker Struggles Threaten Roster Spot After Preseason Loss

Detroit Lions quarterback Hendon Hooker has struggled throughout the 2025 preseason, casting doubt on his ability to secure the No. 2 quarterback job behind starter Jared Goff and backup Kyle Allen. In the final preseason game against the Houston Texans, Hooker completed six of 11 passes for 70 yards with an interception and showed some mobility with a 25-yard scramble, but overall his performance was inconsistent and marked by mistakes such as overthrows and avoidable sacks. Kyle Allen outperformed Hooker by completing all five of his passes and throwing a 33-yard touchdown, further solidifying Allen’s position as the backup quarterback. Hooker’s preseason stats include 22 completions on 40 attempts for 187 yards, three interceptions, and two fumbles, with no passing touchdowns and no touchdowns scored by the Lions while he was on the field. Despite his struggles, Hooker remains confident in his progress and work ethic, hoping to convince the coaching staff to keep him on the roster, but the Lions are facing a tough decision given their win-now mentality and may opt to carry fewer quarterbacks. The final roster decision, expected soon, will determine whether Hooker remains part of the team or whether the Lions allocate that spot elsewhere.