The Detroit Lions are facing a quarterback depth issue this week as Hendon Hooker recovers from a concussion suffered in the preseason opener. With Hooker sidelined, the Lions have only two quarterbacks on the roster: Jared Goff, who has not played in the preseason, and Nate Sudfeld, who is currently battling Hooker for the backup job behind Goff.
If Hooker is unable to play in Saturday’s matchup against the Kansas City Chiefs, the Lions may need to look for external options to add depth at the quarterback position for the remainder of the preseason. Last season, the Lions brought in Teddy Bridgewater just before the start of the preseason, and he suited up in the final two games leading up to the regular season.
Here are four potential options the Lions could consider signing to add depth at quarterback:
1. Ryan Tannehill: A 36-year-old veteran with over a decade of NFL experience, Tannehill would be a quick study and could emerge as a legitimate contender for the backup position behind Goff. He has voiced his desire to return to the game at the right opportunity.
2. Ben DiNucci: A seventh-round pick of the Dallas Cowboys in 2020, DiNucci spent last season on Denver’s practice squad. His familiarity with Sean Payton, who is a mentor of Dan Campbell, may help him acclimate quickly to the Lions’ offense.
3. Jordan Ta’amu: Ta’amu has familiarity with the Lions’ organization, having been with the team in two different stints. Last season with the Washington Defenders of the UFL, he threw for 1,846 yards, 15 touchdowns, and nine interceptions over 10 games.
4. Cade Peterson: Peterson and fellow rookie minicamp tryout player Theo Day are potential options if the Lions are looking for an answer familiar with a portion of the offensive install and concepts in Ben Johnson’s offense. However, it would be a difficult ask for either player to perform at a high level on such short notice.
The Lions will need to act quickly to add depth at quarterback and ensure they have sufficient options for the remainder of the preseason.
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