The Detroit Lions parted ways with backup quarterback Hendon Hooker ahead of Tuesday's deadline, locking in Kyle Allen as the lone backup. Looking at camp and preseason results, this decision doesn't come as a surprise on either count. It has been three years, and Hooker still looks overmatched and has a false sense of belief in how long he can evade contact and hold the football. Keeping Allen was the safer choice and allows you some level of experience behind your star quarterback.
Add in the fact that Jared Goff has an underrated ability to stay healthy, and there is little reason for concern. Still, for a team with legitimate Super Bowl aspirations, pointing out every possible shortcoming or area of possible improvement is worthwhile. It isn't a hot take to suggest that Allen is far from the best option as backups go.
The veteran has spent time with the Panthers, Commanders, Texans, Bills, and Steelers before joining Detroit. There is a reason why his career hasn't had a consistent landing spot. Upgrades are far too easy to find with experienced starters transitioning into backup roles or higher upside prospects offering more promise.
The Lions Could Still Upgrade from Backup Quarterback Kyle Allen
It wouldn't be the first time the Lions made a surprise move at the position, with last season serving as the latest example. In the final stretch of the season, Teddy Bridgewater was brought in behind Goff and would wind up appearing in Detroit's lone playoff game. This serves as a clear example that the Lions are willing to make a move if an obvious upgrade presents itself. Putting pressure on Allen to continue to perform at a high level heading into the season.
Bridgewater would've been an ideal option to bring back, but landed with the Tampa Bay Bucs sitting behind franchise quarterback Baker Mayfield. This left the market with few options and gives Allen a bit of time to cement his position. Still, the Lions are in the middle of a hunt for the first Super Bowl in franchise history and will remain aggressive at every possible position.
The backup winning the job out of preseason shouldn't be enough to feel secure moving forward. A strong early-season performance in camp and aiding the offense must be in place for the Lions to feel better about the limited backup and lessen the sense of urgency to search for possible improvements.