Detroit, Michigan – The Detroit Lions are gearing up for what could be an exciting offseason, as they plan to make some significant roster moves during free agency. With a projected cap space of around $46 million, the team has a few key areas they need to address. Although the Lions aren’t in a dire financial situation, general manager Brad Holmes may want to find ways to save money and create even more cap room.
One potential strategy to achieve this could be parting ways with players occupying unfavourable contracts. Though the options for cuts are limited, ESPN analyst Bill Barnwell suggests that quarterback Hendon Hooker could be considered a candidate for release. In his analysis, Barnwell pointed out that “the Lions don’t have anybody playing meaningful snaps who sticks out as a likely cap casualty.” He noted that Hooker, who is 27 years old, has only managed to throw nine passes in his two years with the team.
It’s worth mentioning that the Lions signed Teddy Bridgewater after the season concluded and promoted him ahead of Hooker on the depth chart. This decision became crucial when Jared Goff missed some time during the playoff battle against the Commanders. Barnwell further argued that although Hooker is only owed $1.3 million in unguaranteed money for 2025, his lack of experience may make him an unreliable backup moving forward, especially after Goff signed an extension in May.
Hooker, drafted in the third round of the 2023 NFL Draft, could not showcase his abilities in his rookie season due to a torn ACL injury sustained in college. In 2024, he appeared in three games, completing six of nine passes for 69 yards. As the 2024 season came to a close, he was moved down to QB3 on the list.
Despite the challenges faced by Hooker, cutting him may not free up substantial funds for Detroit. The Lions would incur some dead cap if they decided to release him. The smart choice for Holmes might be to keep Hooker on the roster for 2025, as he provides mobility and helps maintain continuity within the quarterback room.
With the offseason soon upon them, all eyes will be on the Lions to see how they navigate free agency and what moves they make to bolster their roster.
