The Detroit Lions wrapped up their first set of organized team activities (OTAs) on Friday. The coaching staff had the chance to get their first look at the team's offseason acquisitions — from rookies to veterans — together. The reporting from the offseason program suggests that the first phase was an overall success, with only two veterans, Alex Anzalone and Frank Ragnow, absent.
While offseason practices generally tend to have a positive atmosphere, they also give an insight into the weaknesses of the team. According to The Athletic's Colton Pouncy, one Lions weakness was made obvious this week.
"Keep in mind things were somewhat limited, but at least during the time we were out there, Detroit’s backup quarterbacks — Hendon Hooker and Kyle Allen — didn’t particularly flash. There were a lot of checkdowns, overthrows and would-be sacks. Detroit’s second-string defensive line was ahead of its second-string offensive line, which is typical in offseason practices."Colton Pouncy, The Athletic
Lions Backup QBs Fail to Impress During OTAs
Pouncy made it clear Detroit's backup quarterbacks didn't perform at a high level. Hendon Hooker was reportedly the first reserve QB out on the field, but neither he nor veteran journeyman Kyle Allen did enough to make Lions fans feel good about their QB2 situation.
While it's hard to take much from limited, contactless offseason workouts, this is not a good sign for Hooker especially. The former third-round pick needs to be able to at least flash some upside heading into his third season in the NFL.
Earlier in the offseason, there were rumors about Hooker potentially getting traded. General manager Brad Holmes had said that Hooker had to earn his spot on the roster and brought in Allen. That hasn't seemed to light a fire under Hooker so far.
Fortunately for the Lions, they haven't had to rely on their QB2 over the last two seasons. Jared Goff stayed remarkably healthy and productive. But Lions fans know all too well how injuries can derail a season, so it behooves the coaching staff and front office to address the quarterback room sooner rather than later if things don't improve quickly.