The 2023 NFL Pro Day circuit reach its peak on Thursday when two of the draft’s top five quarterbacks were on display. While Anthony Richardson showed off at Florida’s Pro Day, Hendon Hooker made his case to be a top-50 pick at Tennessee’s Pro Day.
Hooker, who has an average draft position toward the end of the second round in the PFN Mock Draft Simulator, had to show evaluators he’s healing from a torn ACL suffered in November. He received “positive medical reports” at the 2023 NFL Scouting Combine and is expected to be ready for the start of the upcoming season.
Let’s dive into the top takeaways after Hooker completed his pro day performance, including the teams that were present and more.
Hendon Hooker Pro Day
With Hooker recovering from his knee injury, he opted against participating in any of the on-field activities. He was present, which was a wise decision as all 32 teams had representation attend. However, as Ben Arthur of Fox Sports heard, one coach stated, “I wish Hendon (Hooker) was throwing,” and he eventually got his wish.
The Titans were “well represented” with members of the organization, including head coach Mike Vrabel, the Commanders had new offensive coordinator Eric Bieniemy, and the Colts had a key scout present. Opting against throwing and only interviewing with teams may have been a risk for Hooker.
While no one could expect Hooker to put on a full passing display, Hooker looked to help himself by making a few passes and pivoting off his repaired leg. Of course, it’s possible medical professionals haven’t given a green light for more strenuous activities. Hooker’s film was so impressive in 2022 that he earned the right to stand on his on-field achievements.
After the Volunteers’ Pro Day was completed, Hooker spoke with the media about his rehab process and the draft cycle. Though he declined to say which teams he’s spoken with or will interview with, he was appreciative of the opportunity provided. It would be surprising if the Commanders and Titans, in particular, passed on the chance to speak with Hooker.
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Washington, sitting with the 16th overall pick, would be lucky to have a chance at any of the top four quarterbacks without a trade-up. With Sam Howell and Jacoby Brissett already in line to compete for the starting job, taking Hooker in Round 2 and redshirting him for at least part of 2023 would make sense. This strategy would allow Washington to add an immediate contributor in the first round as they look to return to the playoffs this season.
Tennessee and Indianapolis are also intriguing landing spots. The Titans used a third-round pick on Malik Willis in 2022, but he was given an incredibly short leash by Vrabel. With Jon Robinson fired midway through the season, it’s possible that Willis was a Robinson selection and not one that Vrabel liked. Hooker could be taken in the second round and be given the chance to compete in 2024 if Ryan Tannehill departs.
The Colts have the best current situation to land a top passer since they’re guaranteed to see at least one on the board with the No. 4 overall pick. They can’t force the pick, though, so if they want to start their draft by building around Will Anderson Jr. or Jalen Carter and Hooker in the first two rounds, they need to have done their homework on Hooker.
