Hendon Hooker Signs Jets Practice Squad Contract, Scouting Report on QB

Amid their quarterback carousel as the end of the 2025 season draws nearer, the New York Jets brought another signal-caller into the fold.

The Jets announced on Thursday that they've signed quarterback Hendon Hooker to a practice squad contract. The 6'3", 220-pound Tennessee alum most recently spent time on the Carolina Panthers' practice squad before being released last month.

Hooker was a third-round draft pick by the Detroit Lions in 2023. He spent his rookie season rehabbing from a torn ACL and made three appearances in 2024, throwing for 62 yards on 6-of-9 passing. B/R NFL scout Derrik Klassen called him "a fairly talented, highly productive quarterback prospect with a concerning profile and incomplete skill set," and went on to detail some of his positive attributes in his scouting report.

"Hooker's best trait is how he throws the middle of the field. Tennessee's offense often made the reads simple and clear as day, but Hooker executed with good velocity and ball placement. He has enough juice to fit tight windows, as well as the careful placement to lead receivers smoothly for yards after the catch," Klassen stated, also calling him a "solid athlete" and "useful scrambler."

The Jets (3-11) are currently on their third quarterback, as undrafted rookie Brady Cook is set to make his second straight start on Sunday against the New Orleans Saints (4-10). Justin Fields was demoted from the starting role and is currently dealing with a knee injury. Veteran backup Tyrod Taylor suffered a groin injury soon after taking over as the starter.

Perhaps Hooker will be able to work his way up from the practice squad to the active roster for one of New York's final three games. The Jets are evaluating which players will stick around as they continue their transition under their new regime, so Hooker will have the chance to show that he deserves a chance.