Hendon Hooker, the standout quarterback from the University of Tennessee, had his name floating around in trade rumors even before the 2023 season came to a close. As one of the most intriguing prospects in this year’s NFL Draft, Hooker has drawn considerable attention for his potential to make an immediate impact in the league. However, speculation about teams potentially trading for him has already seen an anticipated “kibosh” from those close to the situation, shutting down any notion that a trade might happen before he’s even officially drafted.
The speculation largely stemmed from the idea that Hooker, who suffered a torn ACL during the 2022 season, might fall to a point where teams could get a deal done with the Tennessee Titans, Detroit Lions, or other franchises potentially looking for a backup or developmental quarterback. Hooker, who starred in Josh Heupel’s fast-paced offense at Tennessee, became one of the most intriguing quarterbacks in this year’s draft class. Despite the injury setback, many scouts and NFL executives believe that Hooker has the talent and upside to be a future starter in the NFL.
Nevertheless, the early trade rumors have already been quashed by those in the know. A significant factor in the kibosh is Hooker’s medical status, specifically the recovery from his ACL injury. While he has made significant strides in his rehabilitation process, it’s still uncertain when exactly he will be fully healthy. Teams have to consider the long-term risk of trading assets for a player whose injury status remains a concern. The reality is that there’s no guarantee Hooker will be able to play at a high level early in his rookie year, making any trade for him before the draft less likely.
Additionally, Hooker’s age—he’s 25 years old—further complicates the idea of him being traded before the draft. While that may seem young in many contexts, it is a relatively old age for a rookie quarterback. Teams looking for a quarterback of the future might be hesitant to trade up or spend draft capital on a player who will need time to recover and develop, especially given that Hooker’s draft stock is primarily based on his potential and production in college, rather than tangible game film from his final year.
The more realistic scenario for Hooker is that he will be selected by a team later in the first round or early in the second round, where he can continue his recovery and develop without the pressure of immediate expectations. Teams in the market for a long-term solution at quarterback, or those in need of a developmental project, may see Hooker as a worthy investment, but it will likely be a situation where patience is required.
Hooker’s representatives and agents have likely communicated to teams that he is fully focused on his recovery and ready to contribute to whichever team drafts him. Therefore, any discussions about a potential trade have been quickly extinguished, as they would complicate a situation that is already uncertain due to the injury.
For now, Hooker’s draft stock remains relatively steady despite the speculation. He’s shown flashes of brilliance, including his impressive performance during his 2022 season, when he led Tennessee to an 11-2 record and a high-profile victory over Alabama. Hooker’s ability to process defenses, deliver the ball with accuracy, and show poise in the pocket makes him a promising prospect in the NFL.
Ultimately, Hooker’s fate lies with whichever team believes in his talent and can wait for him to fully heal and reach his potential. As of now, any trade rumors have been firmly dismissed, leaving his future in the hands of the team that selects him in April’s draft.
