Ex-Lions QB Hendon Hooker Praises Dan Campbell's Leadership

Hooker highlights the coach's impact despite his brief Lions tenure.

Published on Feb. 24, 2026

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Hendon Hooker, who had a brief stint with the Detroit Lions, has praised head coach Dan Campbell's leadership and football expertise. Despite limited opportunities during the 2025 season, Hooker spoke highly of Campbell's passion, motivation, and strategic mind, noting how it inspired the entire team.

Why it matters

Hooker's strong endorsement of Campbell's coaching style provides insight into the Lions' culture and the respect the head coach has earned, even from players who didn't have extended tenures with the team. This adds to the growing narrative around Campbell's ability to connect with his players and implement an aggressive, innovative approach on the field.

The details

Hooker, who was the highest-drafted passer by the Lions since Matthew Stafford, struggled to progress as the backup to Jared Goff. After being released in the summer, Hooker joined the practice squads of the Carolina Panthers and New York Jets. Despite the setbacks, Hooker expressed deep respect for Campbell's coaching style, highlighting the coach's passion, football intellect, and ability to inspire the entire team.

  • Hooker had limited opportunities with the Lions in the 2025 season, appearing in just three late-game situations.
  • Hooker was released by the Lions in the summer of 2026.
  • Hooker later joined the practice squads of the Carolina Panthers and New York Jets.

The players

Hendon Hooker

A former quarterback for the Detroit Lions who was released in the summer of 2026 after a brief tenure with the team.

Dan Campbell

The head coach of the Detroit Lions, known for his passionate leadership style and innovative coaching approach.

Jared Goff

The starting quarterback for the Detroit Lions, whose success during the 2025 season limited Hooker's playing time.

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What they’re saying

“I love Dan Campbell, man. He's an amazing coach, an amazing football mind and he coaches with passion; he wants you to play with passion. … It just becomes contagious, and you can see it throughout their whole team — everyone's playing with their hair on fire.”

— Hendon Hooker, Former Detroit Lions Quarterback (FanSided)

What’s next

Hooker is set to become an exclusive rights free agent in March, indicating his NFL journey continues to evolve as he looks for his next opportunity.

The takeaway

Hooker's praise for Dan Campbell's leadership and coaching style, even after being released by the Lions, highlights the respect the head coach has earned and the positive impact he has had on the team's culture. This adds to the growing narrative around Campbell's ability to connect with players and implement an aggressive, innovative approach on the field.