The Detroit Lions signed the dynamic Hendon Hooker after the quarterback went undrafted in the 2023 NFL Draft. Hooker sustained an awful injury at the end of last season with the Tennessee Volunteers that likely resulted in his undrafted status. It seems that after a weekend of rookie minicamp, Hooker has a chip on his shoulder.
On Saturday, Hooker let it be known that he’s feeling motivated by all the critics he has.
“It all just turns into fuel,” Hooker said via NFL Rookie Watch. The account said that he “sent a MESSAGE to all his doubters at his presser” on Saturday.
“It turns into a chip on my shoulder,” the Lions quarterback said. “All this, ‘Oh his leg is hurt.’ The film doesn’t lie. I’m the SEC Offensive Player of the Year for a reason.”
Hendon Hooker sent a MESSAGE to all his doubters at his presser today.
“It all just turns into fuel. It turns into a chip on my shoulder. All this ‘oh his leg is hurt’. The film doesn’t lie. I’m the SEC offensive player of the year for a reason.”
Hooker’s leadership has… pic.twitter.com/sm8klaw2rk
— NFL Rookie Watch (@NFLRookieWatxh) May 13, 2023
It’s clear he’s not short on confidence, which will likely help Hooker out a lot as he battles for a roster spot. Jared Goff is probable to start the season under center but it’s entirely possible the talented former Tennessee quarterback gives him some chase if he gets the opportunity.
Hendon Hooker was well on his way to contending for the Heisman Trophy before he went down with his knee injury. He threw for over 3,100 yards, 27 touchdowns, and just two interceptions against formidable SEC competition.
