The Detroit Lions released their list of inactives going into the divisional round game versus the Washington Commanders on Saturday night and the team had one notable player on the list.
That player was quarterback Hendon Hooker, who served as the Lions' backup signal-caller during the regular season after beating out veteran Nate Sudfeld during the offseason. Due to his inactive status, Hooker will serve as the emergency QB.
Hooker showed some flashes during the preseason but has not played any meaningful snaps thanks to Jared Goff staying healthy for the entire season. As a result, he's a total wild card if he has to enter a game.
In late December, the Lions reunited with veteran quarterback Teddy Bridgewater, who had retired during the 2024 offseason to coach his high school alma mater, Northwestern High School. Bridgewater will be Goff's backup.
After the signing was announced, head coach Dan Campbell made it clear that the addition did not mean they are down on Hooker.
"It doesn't mean we're disappointed in Hooker," Campbell said. "That's not what this means. It just means this gives us a guy, somebody that's played a lot in the NFL. We're getting ready for the playoffs, so it'll be good to get him back in the fold with us."
Why is Hendon Hooker inactive?
The only explanation for Hooker being inactive is the Lions are opting to go with the experienced option in Bridgewater, who has nine years of NFL games under his belt. Bridgewater has appeared in one playoff game during his career, also.
This obviously shows the Lions don't have a ton of faith in Hooker if his number is called, which is understandable, especially in such a high-leverage situation. Bridgewater would give the Lions a better chance to win if Goff gets hurt.
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