Detroit Lions quarterback Hendon Hooker made his NFL debut in a preseason game against the New York Giants, marking his return from an ACL injury sustained in November 2022. Hooker showed promise by completing 5 of 9 passes for 36 yards and rushing four times for 34 yards, including an impressive 16-yard run. However, his debut was cut short due to a possible concussion, forcing him to leave the game in the third quarter. Competing with Nate Sudfeld for the backup role behind Jared Goff, Hooker demonstrated more athleticism and potential during his limited playtime. The Lions do not provide injury updates during the preseason, leaving the extent of Hooker's injury uncertain. Hooker was a third-round pick in the 2023 NFL Draft and was redshirted his rookie season while recovering from his ACL injury.