There is a reason why Detroit Lions backup quarterback Kyle Allen has consistently bounced around the league. Reasons that were on full display in Detroit's preseason opener set a clear need to find an upgrade behind Jared Goff. The Lions had reason not only for frustration with Allen, but Hendon Hooker as well, who looked equally lost on the football field.
Making this all the more concerning is the fact that Allen was going against a lot of pieces who will never take the field in the 2025 season. Still, the quarterback couldn't move the ball and consistently created turnovers.
Out of Allen's two interceptions, the most glaring included a comeback route that the corner clearly read based on the quarterback staring down the route. While it wasn't a great route, the corner was able to quickly adjust and pick off the ball due to seeing Allen's eyes. So much of the game is mental manipulation, and the backup quarterback cannot do this at an NFL level. The ball was returned deep into Detroit's red zone, setting Trey Lance up for yet another touchdown drive. It served as a clear example of the Lions' need to make a change.
The Lions Cannot Afford to Trust Kyle Allen
If Jared Goff goes down for any extended time, it isn't a hot take to believe the season is lost. Nearly every team in the league has this perspective if it loses its starting quarterback. However, the majority of the league has put together a quarterback room capable of buying a game or two if a short-term injury strikes. The Lions owe it to themselves and the fan base to learn from this and upgrade from Allen.
The version of the quarterback fans watched in the preseason opener is exactly who he will continue to be. There are years of tape and evidence that Allen simply isn't a reliable backup option. Whether it is a trade or signing Carson Wentz, the Lions need to make a move that gives the team a chance if Goff misses a short window. The only consistent piece of Allen's game is turnovers.
It is the reason why every stop in the backup's career has been short-lived. Teams haven't needed long to figure out the veteran isn't reliable and cannot be put into a game with any level of expectations. All of this adds up to a sense of urgency that requires Detroit find an answer.