Tennessee Football legend Hendon Hooker looks to have made the Tennessee Titans' 53-man roster. The former Volunteer quarterback is going to survive a crowded quarterback room to earn his spot on the roster. Hooker notably beat out former Kentucky Wildcat and 2nd-round pick Will Levis to make the roster.
Hendon Hooker Made One Last Impression
Tennessee quarterback Hendon Hooker (16) throws during warmups before their preseason game against the Chicago Bears at Nissan Stadium Saturday, Aug. 29, 2026. | USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
Just one day before the 53-man rosters needed to be finalized, Hooker had to make the most of his opportunities against the Chicago Bears in the preseason. Hooker took advantage of the opportunity by playing sound football and making one highlight run that reminded every Vols fan of his time at the University of Tennessee.
What It Means for Hendon Hooker’s Career
August 13, 2026; Santa Clara, California, USA; Tennessee Titans quarterback Hendon Hooker (16) warms up before the game against the San Francisco 49ers at Levi's Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kyle Terada-Imagn Images | IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect
Hooker was a 3rd-round pick in the 2023 NFL draft by the Detroit Lions and served as their backup for two seasons before being waived in 2025. After being waived, Hooker made stops with the Carolina Panthers and New York Jets practice squads last season.
Many were speculating that Hooker would once again be fighting for his NFL life and be cut from the Titans' roster, but Hooker has successfully made the team. Hooker’s NFL career has not gone how many have hoped, but by making the team, he has preserved his career once again.
Hooker has only appeared in three games over his NFL career, registering just nine pass attempts. All of these came in 2024 as a member of the Lions, serving as Jared Goff's backup. Hooker has yet to throw his first official NFL touchdown.
Hooker will look to rejuvenate his career in the same state that made him a household name. With many Volunteer fans also pulling for the Titans, it will be safe to assume Hooker will be well supported on the Titans, as his next goal will be moving up the depth chart, as he follows behind Cam Ward and Mitchell Trubisky currently.
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