Hendon Hooker's time in Detroit is finished.
The Lions are releasing the 2023 third-round pick, NFL Network Insider Mike Garafolo reported.
Hooker lost the preseason battle for the backup quarterback job to veteran Kyle Allen, who outplayed Hooker in the Lions' four preseason games and was clearly the better choice by the conclusion of their preparatory period. Lions coach Dan Campbell recently told reporters he felt Hooker could use a change of scenery, suggesting the outcome that became reality Monday.
Hooker's career in Detroit began with the allure of potential after earning the SEC Offensive Player of the Year Award in his final season at Tennessee, but a knee injury hindered his acclimation to the pro game, essentially costing him his entire rookie season. Once seen as a long-term developmental prospect, Hooker appeared in three games in mop-up duty last season, completing 6 of 9 passes for 62 yards.
He'll become a free agent with the hopes of finding new scenery this week.
