It is important to note that in no way should Detroit Lions fans be panicking after getting blown out in the league's preseason debut. Detroit wasn't starting any players of note and was simply looking to head into next week as healthy as possible.
This is completely understandable when you look at how last season went and the extra week of preparation the Lions had playing in the Hall of Fame game. Still, there is an important takeaway from this game that demands a response. Jared Goff remains the franchise quarterback and the biggest key to the team making a historic Super Bowl run.
With that said, the Lions simply aren't good enough behind their franchise quarterback. Hendon Hooker was put in towards the end of the game and looked completely overmatched. It seemed Hooker believed he was the best athlete on the field, and yet was a step behind a defense that likely isn't making the Los Angeles roster. The few pieces that do are going to be in special teams and depth roles. Hooker didn't look to be a capable backup or a player who can be relied on at any point if Goff goes down.
Appears Hendon Hooker had two open receivers here. Ran instead. pic.twitter.com/av1m2r8qX2
— Jordan Dajani (@JordanDajani) August 1, 2025
The Lions Must Consider Signing Veteran Quarterback Carson Wentz
Kyle Allen managed to look even worse than Hooker, tossing two awful interceptions and appearing to have no business on a football field. While it is just preseason action, there simply isn't anything in the career of either player to suggest this is going to change. It is time for the Lions to go out and pay Carson Wentz whatever it takes to bring in the experienced starter behind Goff. No matter what you think of the former starter, one cannot reasonably argue that he isn't an incredible upgrade.
If Goff were to go down for a game or two, Wentz is talented enough to give this offense and chance and run the same system. You cannot say the same for Allen or Hooker, who both appear completely overmatched and unable to make the needed plays even in a vanilla preseason offense. Signing Wentz is an obvious move and gives the veteran a chance to land with a contender.
There was a time when the former Philly starter was an MVP candidate and considered among the league's most talented starters. While these days are long gone, there is still hope that Wentz can turn back the clock to this version of himself if Goff were to go down. Sticking with Allen and Hooker simply doesn't match Detroit's standards and ensures if Goff goes down for any amount of time that the Lions will not win.