Sophia
The Carolina Panthers are meticulously finalizing their 2025 roster, and a notable addition to their practice squad signals a strategic move to cultivate future talent. After a flurry of roster moves this week, including trimming the active roster to 53 players and making waiver claims, the Panthers are now reportedly bringing in a familiar face to their quarterback room: Hendon Hooker.
Hooker Lands in Carolina After Lions Stint
According to The Charlotte Observer, the Panthers are adding Hendon Hooker to their practice squad after he was waived by the Detroit Lions on Tuesday and subsequently cleared waivers. Hooker, a third-round pick by Detroit in the 2023 NFL Draft, has seen limited NFL action, completing just 6 of 9 passes for 62 yards in three regular-season appearances.
His professional journey began with high expectations after a stellar collegiate career at Tennessee, where he earned SEC Offensive Player of the Year honors. In his final season with the Volunteers, Hooker showcased remarkable efficiency, completing an impressive 69.6% of his passes for 3,135 yards, 27 touchdowns, and just two interceptions.
A Memorable College Showdown with Bryce Young
Intriguingly, Hooker’s arrival in Carolina reunites him with current Panthers starting quarterback Bryce Young. The two signal-callers famously clashed in one of the most thrilling college football games of the 2022 season. In that epic encounter, Tennessee defeated Alabama 52-49, marking the Volunteers’ first victory over the Crimson Tide since 2006.
Both quarterbacks delivered masterful performances. Young threw for an astounding 455 yards and two touchdowns, while Hooker countered with 385 yards, five touchdowns, and one interception. A significant highlight from that game saw eventual Biletnikoff Award winner and New York Giants draft pick Jalin Hyatt haul in all five of Hooker’s touchdown passes, accumulating 207 receiving yards in the process.
New Beginnings and Mentorship Under Dave Canales
Hooker’s release from the Lions was not entirely unexpected, as Kyle Allen had emerged as the superior backup option for Jared Goff during the preseason. Now, Hooker gets a fresh start and a valuable opportunity to develop under the guidance of Panthers Head Coach Dave Canales, known for his prowess in quarterback development.
This move provides the Panthers with an intriguing prospect who possesses a strong arm and a proven track record of success at the collegiate level. His presence on the practice squad offers depth and a chance for the coaching staff to mold his talents within their system, potentially setting the stage for a more significant role down the line.
