The Detroit Lions made a significant roster move on Tuesday, announcing the activation of rookie quarterback Hendon Hooker from the non-football injury list. Hooker, who suffered a torn ACL in his final game at Tennessee, has been sidelined for the entire regular season thus far.

The third-round pick was designated for return a few weeks ago, allowing him to participate in team practices. Although Jared Goff and Teddy Bridgewater currently hold the top spots on the Lions' depth chart, Hooker's activation grants him the opportunity to continue practicing with the team for the remainder of the season.

While Bridgewater is planning to retire, this development positions Hooker as a strong contender for the No. 2 quarterback role next year. With valuable practice time during the rest of the season, Hooker will have the chance to further develop his skills and prove his potential as a future leader on the Lions' offensive unit.

In a corresponding move, the Lions have waived kicker Riley Patterson. The decision comes after Michael Badgley was elevated from the practice squad last Saturday to assume the team's kicking duties. Badgley's impressive performance has solidified his position as the Lions' kicker moving forward.

The Lions organization and fans alike are eager to see how Hooker's return from injury will impact the team's dynamic and quarterback options. With his impressive collegiate record and the opportunity to learn from experienced quarterbacks like Goff and Bridgewater, Hooker has the potential to make a strong impact in the future of the Lions franchise.