As NFL training camp nears, the Detroit Lions are handling the last bit of roster housekeeping, making an expected move.
On Thursday, the team placed three players on the non-football injury list, including rookie quarterback Hendon Hooker, picked in Round 3 of the NFL draft in the spring.
Hooker had a Heisman Trophy-worthy start to last season before an ACL injury ended his 2022 campaign in mid November. After many draft prognosticators had Hooker as a first-round selection, the Lions took the Tennessee QB with the 68th overall pick.
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During rookie minicamp in May and mandatory minicamp in June, Hooker threw the ball a little and had plenty of mental reps, but did not fully participate in drills. Hooker said in June he was “way ahead of schedule” with his rehab
Lions coach Dan Campbell said Hooker likely will spend this season redshirting as he strengthens his knee and gets adjusted to life in the NFL. But since he’s on the NFI list, Hooker can be activated and made eligible to play at any point this season.
Tight end Derrick Deese Jr., an undrafted free agent last season who signed a futures deal in January, and defensive lineman Zach Morton, an undrafted free agent this year out of Akron, to the NFI list.