There has been plenty of hype surrounding rookie quarterbacks Bryce Young and C.J. Stroud over the past few months, and rightfully so. However, the Lions may have found the most polished signal-caller in Hendon Hooker.
Hooker was selected by the Lions in the third round of this year’s draft. Prior to suffering a torn ACL last season, he had 3,135 passing yards, 27 touchdowns and just two interceptions for Tennessee.
We caught up with Hendon Hooker to talk about his final season at Tennessee, first month with the Lions, partnership with Bush’s Beans and more.
The Spun: Can you tell us about your partnership with Bush’s Beans?
Hendon Hooker: Bush’s Beans have always been something in my family that we hold dear to our hearts. Being able to partner with them and showcase my dad’s recipe on draft day has been amazing. Partnering up with them has been great.
The Spun: Has there been a major adjustment going from Josh Heupel to Dan Campbell?
HH: It’s actually been the same. I’ve always conducted myself as a pro in my process. At Tennessee, they gave me the freedom to do things the pros do. I was able to come in early and leave late. The environment is the same because Tennessee treated us like pros. When I got to Detroit, it was the same vibe. I remember telling the quarterback coach [Mark Brunell] of the Lions, ‘Man, I love coming to work.’ He was like, ‘Me too.’ It’s just that type of environment. I’m hungry to learn and get better each day.
The Hendon Hooker ➡️ Jalin Hyatt connection was simply unstoppable for @Vol_Football against Alabama. pic.twitter.com/ySuNIZARHs
— CBS Sports (@CBSSports) October 16, 2022
The Spun: You had such a great final season at Tennessee. What was the initial thought going through your head after beating Alabama?
HH: Well, it was my dad’s birthday. So I was thinking, ‘Man are we going to be able to make the reservation to the restaurant.’ The game was taking so long, so I figured we’d hit so much traffic. But really, I just thought that we should celebrate the win that night and then quickly move on to the next one. You can’t dwell on success or failure.
The Spun: Did you have any conversations with Peyton Manning last season?
HH: Peyton and I are really close. We talked every week from the summer to game time. He came to a lot of our games as well. He’d ask us what we’re trying to accomplish and what’s the defense showing us. Our relationship is very special. Him being an all-time great quarterback in the NFL and in college – I want to follow in his footsteps. I’ve also had plenty of conversations with Josh Dobbs, who is like my big bro. He’s a very intelligent guy, so when I’m around him I try to pick his brain and learn new information.
Lions QB Hendon Hooker moved around and threw passes for the cameras at the annual NFLPA @PaniniAmerica Rookie Premiere pic.twitter.com/wfszU0uU0F
— Brad Galli (@BradGalli) May 22, 2023
The Spun: How is your recovery process going?
HH: I feel good. I was talking to my roommate Joe Milton. I said I’ve been working my tail off because at the Panini America Rookie Premiere I didn’t get to rehab as much as I wanted to. I’m grinding this week to get back to where I want to be. But I’m ahead of schedule for sure. I’m taking it day by day and playing it by ear. Once I’m 100 percent, I’ll step back on the field.
The Spun: Since you mentioned him, I got to ask about Joe Milton. What do you expect from him this fall?
HH: I’m expecting a national championship, I’m expecting a Heisman Trophy, I’m expecting the real deal. He’s the best quarterback in the nation, there’s no question about it. If there are questions about that, we need to go back and watch the film. He’s the best quarterback in the nation and he’s going to do some great things. I’ve learned a lot from Joe. I talk to him all the time so when he goes through this process he can dominate.
This throw by Joe Milton! pic.twitter.com/uQ8dQccU7D
— CHANNEL (@CHANNEL_TN_) May 24, 2023
The Spun: Did you laugh off the age concerns during the draft process?
HH: I can’t control my age [laughs]. It’s nitpicking. I thought we were playing football. Who can lead the team? Who can throw the ball accurately? Who can control the front and get protected? It’s always going to be something though. They don’t let you float by during the draft process. They tried to knock Bryce Young and say he’s too small, but he’s a baller. They tried to knock C.J. Stroud, but he’s also a baller. You just have to roll with the punches and be ready to work.
The Spun: What have your early interactions with Jared Goff been like?
HH: Talking to JG every day helps. I’m observing how efficient Jared’s footwork is and how he’s processing things. I’m still complimenting him like a fan during practice. He’s an all-around great guy and great teammate. I really enjoy learning from him.
The Spun: Who are your top 5 quarterbacks of all time?
HH: I’ll go Peyton Manning, Tom Brady, Aaron Rodgers, Patrick Mahomes and Doug Williams.
The Spun: Where do you envision yourself 10 years from now?
HH: Two Super Bowl appearances, at least one Super Bowl, a Super Bowl MVP and on the road to a legendary dynasty.
The Spun: Since you’re with Bush’s Beans today, I’m curious, have you been able to grill for the guys yet?
HH: There hasn’t been a moment like that yet. I know there will be a moment where we’re all chilling and someone has to get the grill going. Of course, you can throw Bush’s Beans on there. You can never go wrong with salad, chicken, steak, hamburgers and hot dogs. Usually, you just go with whatever the guys request.
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Even though Hooker hasn’t been cleared for action, he’s getting in as many mental reps as he can this offseason. That could go a long way for the former SEC Offensive Player of the Year.
Hooker showed at Tennessee that he’s always ready to step up when his number gets called. Lions fans shouldn’t expect anything different once his knee fully heals.
You can read more of our interviews with athletes and media stars here.