Panthers Sign QBs Hendon Hooker, RB DeeJay Dallas Practice Squad

The Carolina Panthers have signed former Tennessee quarterback Hendon Hooker to their practice squad after he was released by the Detroit Lions, where he lost the backup quarterback competition. Hooker, a third-round pick in the 2023 NFL Draft, had limited NFL action but was a standout college player, finishing near the Heisman race in 2022 before a knee injury ended his college career. He completed 66.9% of his passes for 8,975 yards and 80 touchdowns over five seasons at Virginia Tech and Tennessee. Alongside Hooker, the Panthers also added running back DeeJay Dallas to their practice squad, who has experience as a returner and running back with the Arizona Cardinals and Seattle Seahawks. Dallas appeared in all 17 games for Arizona in 2024 and returned a kickoff for a touchdown. These additions aim to enhance the Panthers' depth at quarterback and running back as they prepare for the 2025 season.